State Guide: Ash Scattering in California

If you are thinking of scattering ashes in the state of California, it may be helpful to know the official symbols:

• State Flower: California Poppy 🌺
• State Tree: Coast Redwood 🌳
• State Bird: California Quail 🐦
• State River: Sacramento River 🌊
• State Stone: Serpentine 💎
• State Song: "I Love You, California" 🎶
• State Motto: "Eureka" ⚖️

How prevalent is the practice of scattering cremated ashes or cremains in California?

The practice of scattering ashes has become increasingly popular in California, reflecting a broader national trend toward cremation and personalized memorials. While specific statistics on ash scattering in California are limited, cremation has seen a significant rise.

In 2020, the cremation rate in California was approximately 63%, with projections showing continued growth. With this increase, more families are seeking meaningful and personalized ways to honor their loved ones, including scattering ashes in designated gardens, cemeteries, or natural locations.

California law permits the scattering of ashes on private property (with the owner’s consent), in state parks with proper authorization, and at sea at least three nautical miles from shore. Several cemeteries and organizations have developed designated scattering gardens to accommodate this growing preference.

Examples of Ash Scattering Gardens in California

In California, several cemeteries and organizations offer scattering gardens—designated areas where families can respectfully scatter the cremated remains of their loved ones. Here are some notable options:

Chapel of the Chimes Scattering Garden

• Location: Oakland, CA
  Description: Since 1872, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the Hayward community. We exist to serve the unique needs of every family. Learn our story. Lean on us. And let our expertise lead you through the best experience possible.
  Website: Chapel of the Chimes

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Scattering Garden

• Location: Los Angeles, CA
  Description: Hollywood Forever is a full-service cemetery, funeral home, cremation services provider, and cultural events center in the heart of Hollywood, Los Angeles. Founded in 1899, the national cemetery is one of the world's most historic places, and the final resting place of hundreds of Hollywood legends, including Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, Rudolph Valentino, Mickey Rooney, Tyrone Power, Douglas Fairbanks, Johnny and Dee Dee Ramone, Valerie Harper, Chris Cornell, and hundreds of others. And is also the burial site of thousands of neighborhood residents and individuals from across the globe.
  Website: Hollywood Forever Cemetery

El Camino Memorial Park Scattering Garden

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Description: El Camino Memorial Parks is dedicated to helping celebrate your life or that of a loved one with a funeral and memorial service befitting the life lived.
• Website: El Camino Memorial Park

Fernwood Cemetery & Funeral Home

• Location: Mill Valley, CA
• Description: We offer natural burial, green burial, traditional burial, cremation services, and America’s first green Jewish Cemetery, Gan Yarok. Our compassionate and experienced cemetery and funeral home staff can assist you in planning a memorial service or intimate remembrance for your loved one. Our vision is driven by a desire for simplicity and a deep commitment to the conservation and restoration of the natural environment. Our hope is to help you fill the emptiness of your loss by giving expression to the richness and beauty of a life that was like no other.
• Website: Fernwood Cemetery

Are there mail-in options for ash scattering services?

Yes! If you are looking for a way to celebrate your loved one, consider a customizable mail-in ash scattering ceremony with Farmstead Scattering Garden. We’ve simplified the process by offering a mail-in service. With Farmstead Scattering, you can mail cremated remains, and upon arrival, we’ll honor your loved one by scattering their ashes on our working farm. With our services, you can choose a specific location and customize the scattering ceremony.

Visit our service page or call or text us at (814) 450-5432 to learn more.