Choosing the final resting place for a loved one is a deeply personal decision. In the Orlando and Central Florida region, families have a variety of beautiful options for scattering cremated remains, from the serene Atlantic coast to local conservation areas. Understanding the local ordinances and state laws ensures that your memorial service is both respectful and compliant.
Scattering on Private Property in Florida
Under Florida Statute 497.607, you are legally permitted to scatter cremated remains on your own private property. If you wish to scatter on private land owned by someone else, you must obtain permission from the property owner. Many families in the Orlando choose to create a dedicated memorial garden or a “living legacy” by planting a tree with the remains.
Atlantic Coast & Scattering at Sea
For many Central Florida families, the pull of the Atlantic Ocean is strong. Whether you are departing from Port Canaveral, Daytona Beach, or Cocoa Beach, there are federal guidelines to follow:
- The 3-Nautical-Mile Rule: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires that scattering take place at least three nautical miles from the shore.
- EPA Notification: You must notify the EPA of the scattering within 30 days of the event. This is a simple online process and does not require a permit in advance.
- Biodegradable Only: Only biodegradable materials (such as flowers or wreaths) may be placed in the water. Plastic or metal containers must be removed.
- Charter Services: Several local boat captains in the Space Coast area specialize in “Sea Burials” and can provide the necessary GPS coordinates for your records.
Public Parks & Conservation Areas in Florida
Central Florida is home to stunning natural landscapes like the Ocala National Forest and the Wekiva River Basin. While scattering is often permitted, it is important to be mindful of local regulations:
- Discretion is Key: Most public parks, including Lake Eola Park or the Harry P. Leu Gardens, allow scattering as long as it is done discreetly and away from high-traffic pedestrian areas.
- No Permanent Markers: The placement of permanent monuments, plaques, or benches in public parks typically requires municipal approval and is generally not allowed for individual memorialization.
- Waterways: If scattering in a local lake or river, ensure you are not near a public drinking water intake.
Traveling through Orlando International (MCO) with Cremated Remains
If you are traveling out of Orlando International Airport (MCO) with cremated remains, the TSA has specific requirements to ensure a smooth security process:
- Scannable Containers: The urn or container must be made of a material that can be X-rayed, such as wood, plastic, or cardboard. Metal urns may be rejected if the X-ray cannot see through them.
- Carry-on is Preferred: Most funeral professionals recommend carrying the remains in your carry-on luggage to keep them within your control.
- Documentation: Always carry a certified copy of the Death Certificate and the Cremation Certificate provided by your local DFS Memorials partner.
Creating a Local Memorial in Florida
If you prefer a permanent site for visitation, Orlando offers several alternatives:
- Green Burial Options: Some local cemeteries offer “scattering gardens” or “nature trails” specifically designed for the scattering of cremated remains.
- Niche Placement: Consider a columbarium niche in a local house of worship or a community cemetery for a secure, permanent location.
Nicholas V. Ille is the founder of DFS Memorials, a nationwide network connecting families with trusted, local cremation providers. With more than 25 years of experience in the death care industry, he writes about cremation, funeral planning, direct cremation trends, and consumer-focused end-of-life care. Nicholas is also the founder of US Funerals Online and Canadian Funerals Online.
