The scattering of ashes in a significant place is one of the most popular choices for honouring someone that has passed. However, it can sometimes be difficult to choose where to do it!
There are practically no regulations on spreading ashes in the UK. Our guide to scattering ashes discusses all you need to know.
What permission is needed for scattering ashes?
Spreading ashes is legal almost anywhere in the UK as long as you obtain the consent of a landowner. Below are some of the most popular options:
1. Private land
You may pick to spread the ashes on private lands, such as in a yard or field. The main point to think about if you want to do this is that you have to have the landowner's approval.
An additional factor to consider is whether or not you will want to return to the site. An example would be if you spread the ashes in your own garden and then decided to move somewhere down the line, you will not have any kind of right to return to the land.
2. Rivers, streams, lakes and the sea
One more popular selection for scattering ashes is across the water. You do not need to ask for authorisation in order to do this.
Spreading ashes in the sea can be an inexpensive option compared to burial at sea, which includes a licence and special casket needs. You do not require a licence to spread ashes at sea and many beaches and shorelines are accessible to the general public at all times. You should, nonetheless, be mindful of other people that are utilising the coastline and choose an area away from swimmers.
3. Mountains or hills
Scattering ashes on hills and also hilltops can deliver the attractive setting many people look for when saying goodbye. Be aware that renowned beauty spots may be busy and have many visitors and it could be difficult to discover a personal spot to say goodbye. Likewise, mountainsides and hills can be really windy, always attempt to stand upwind as you scatter the ashes.
4. In a woodland cemetery, burial ground or churchyard
Several crematoriums, cemeteries and also woodlands have designated sections for spreading ashes such as family grave sites or memorial gardens. Contact your funeral director, cemetery or crematorium officer for more advice on these options as well as to request permission to scatter ashes in these locations.
5. Sporting locations
Scattering ashes at favourite football stadiums, rugby grounds, cricket pitches or racing courses is a prominent means to honour the memory of a sports fan. This will always depend on the policy of the club as not all will facilitate this, unfortunately. Likewise, do remember that it could be hard for you to access the spot once again in the future.
Spreading the ashes of a loved one need not happen in one particular location. If you decide, you can scatter parts of the ashes in numerous different locations. Possibly they had a number of favourite destinations, or you want part of the ashes in your garden at home and part of them scattered on a beach. The choice is yours.
If you have more questions or would like answers to different questions, please feel free to leave a comment below or contact the friendly team at Barnsley Municipal Funerals
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