How Does Scattering Cremated Ashes Work in Hawaii?

Hawaii is highlighted as an incredible state and is home to some of the most magnificent sunsets in the world and some of the most breathtaking beaches, waterfalls, and volcanoes in the world! The large rise in the number of people in Hawaii and other states opting to have their remains cremated has led to an increase in the number of inquiries regarding scattering ashes in Hawaii that funeral houses are fielding from families. The following is a list of the most frequently asked questions: Is it legal to scatter ash in Hawaii? Where on the Hawaiian islands is a dispersion able to take place? In this guide, we focus on the most important facts and other information that can answer these queries, as well as the plethora of other inquiries about scattering ashes in Hawaii. 

Rules and Regulations for Ash Scattering in Hawaii

It is always a good idea to check with local municipal or county government offices where you plan on scattering to find out if there are any local limitations in place. Although no state regulations in Hawaii prohibit families from scattering the ashes in a sea of a loved one, local laws prohibit certain activities. Urns, graves, niches, and crypts are all acceptable places in Hawaii to store ashes. Ashes from humans and their pets are completely safe and pose no threat to human or animal health.

Where is the Best Place in Hawaii to Scatter Ashes?

People in Hawaii often choose to disperse the ashes of a deceased loved one in the ocean or another scenic outdoor site of their choosing. Other popular options include places with significant importance to the family or the deceased person. Along with the act of scattering, many families in Hawaii will also conduct a celebration or service in which they invite close friends and family members to attend. Because of this, they are able to spend time with one another, talk about memories, and think about the person who has passed away. Many families often invite other relatives and close friends to participate in the actual scattering of the ashes.

This stunning state is a popular location for ash dispersal for families from all over the world, in addition to the enormous number of Hawaiians who choose to spread the ashes of a deceased family member or friend in their home state. People often disperse their ashes in one of the many breathtaking locations that Hawaii has to offer. In the following, you will find information about some more widespread ones.

1. Scattering Ashes at Sea - Due to the state's beautiful beaches and coastline and long-standing cultural ties to the ocean, Hawaii is home to many people who choose to have their ashes scattered at sea. There are a number of boating firms on each island that offer services for scattering at sea or water burials, and a visit to the local port on an island or a short internet search may generally draw up many possibilities that are located close to you. Ashes must be dispersed at a distance of at least three nautical miles from shore, as per the United States Federal Clean Water Act requirements, if you plan on carrying out this gesture in memory of a loved one who has passed away. 

2. Private Property - Any state regulations in Hawaii do not prohibit you from dispersing the ashes of a deceased loved one (or pet) in your backyard or any other part of your property that you own and control. If that is your intention, you must obtain the owner's permission in advance if you plan on dispersing ashes on private land that another individual or organization owns.

3. Public Land - No governmental regulations prohibit scattering ashes on public land in Hawaii. Be sure to verify with the local government offices in the area where you intend to disperse the ashes to ensure that the city or county imposes no limits and that you stay away from any sacred or religious locations (unless you receive permission to do so).

4. National Parks - Hawaii is home to eight different National Parks, all of which are breathtaking places that many people choose to visit to disperse the ashes of a deceased family member or friend. You should contact the park ranger's office before heading to a national park to disperse ashes. This will allow you to find out whether or not the scattering of ashes is permitted at the park in question, as well as any applicable rules and restrictions. If going to a national park is something that you or your family are interested in doing, you should be sure to plan ahead of time because each national park has its own individual rules and regulations.

5. Scattering Gardens - Due to the rise in cremation and the increasing number of people who want to spread the ashes of a deceased loved one, many cemeteries and churches are now designating specific places on their land for the purpose of scattering (this area is frequently referred to as a "scattering garden"). 

6. Scattering in the Atmosphere – It is not against the law in Hawaii for anyone to disperse the ashes of a deceased loved one using a flying vehicle, such as an airplane, helicopter, or drone. It is important to remember to keep a firm grip on the urn or other container that will be used to release the ashes into the air. According to federal aviation legislation, it is illegal for anyone to release objects from above that have the potential to cause damage to property or harm to people.

The Bottom Line -

Always remember that the correct handling and scattering of ashes in Hawaii is crucial to protecting the integrity of the environment and showing respect for those who have passed away and the loved ones they left behind. In order to help create a ceremony that is meaningful and courteous, following the guidelines and regulations will help.