Scattering Ashes in Utah
Scattering is a common choice for cremated remains, and Utah law allows it in several kinds of places. Some places need permission from the landowner or land manager. This page covers where it’s allowed and what to check first.
No. Utah law allows scattering in a cemetery, on uninhabited public land, at sea or on public waterways, and on private land with the owner’s written consent. Other laws, such as national park rules, can still apply.
Where Utah law allows scattering
| Place | What Utah law says | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| A cemetery | Allowed | Whether the cemetery has a scattering garden, and its fee |
| Uninhabited public land | Allowed | The rules of the agency that manages the land |
| The sea or public waterways | Allowed, subject to health and environmental laws | State and federal water rules |
| Private land | Allowed with the landowner’s written consent | Get the consent in writing and give it to the funeral home |
National parks and other public land
Federal rules prohibit scattering cremated remains in national parks unless the park has issued a permit or designated an area for it. Utah has five national parks. Contact the park before you go.
Other public land, such as national forests, BLM land, and state parks, is run by different agencies with their own rules. We haven’t verified each agency’s policy, so ask the land manager.
If the remains aren’t picked up
Utah law lets a funeral home dispose of cremated remains that no one claims within 60 days, in any lawful way except scattering. If you plan to scatter later, pick up the remains or make an agreement with the funeral home.
Moving remains already buried
Remains that are already buried need a disinterment permit from Utah Vital Records before they can be moved. The permit costs $25, and the cemetery charges its own fees.
Faith and family
Some faiths discourage scattering. The Catholic Church, for example, asks that ashes be laid to rest in a sacred place. See faith and cultural considerations. Some families scatter part of the remains and bury or keep the rest.
“Who owns or manages this place, and do we need their permission to scatter here?”
Before you scatter
- Find out who owns or manages the place.
- Get written consent for private land.
- Check for a permit in a national park.
- Talk with family about keeping part of the remains.
Ready to see how these choices apply to your situation?
Your Wayfinder Plan can help organize the options you’re considering and give you a clearer picture of what to ask and compare.
Build My Wayfinder Plan- Where scattering is allowed, private-land consent, 60-day rule: Utah Code 58-9-611.
- National parks: 36 CFR 2.62.
- Disinterment permit fee: Utah Office of Vital Records fee schedule.
- Catholic guidance: Ad resurgendum cum Christo (2016).
This page is general information, not legal advice. Rules on specific public lands vary.