Scattering Services

For families who have chosen cremation for a loved one, the next decision involves what to do with the remains. Some choose to keep the cremated remains in their home, have them placed in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scatter the ashes in a meaningful place.

Ash Scattering

Cremation provides families with more time to arrange where and how to scatter the ashes. While there is no policing agency overseeing scattering, here is some helpful information from the British Columbia Funeral Association:

"Cremated remains also may be scattered in cemetery gardens specially created and dedicated for this purpose. The location where the cremated remains have been scattered in the garden may also provide opportunities to commemorate the deceased by name on a special memorial plaque or marker.  
 
There are no provincial regulations that prohibit the scattering of cremated remains on land, sea or by air. However, no person is allowed to scatter anything on any property without permission from the land owner. Before scattering cremated remains anywhere you should ensure that you have permission of the owner of the property. Once you have permission and have decided to scatter the cremated remains, it is highly advisable that serious consideration be given to the permanence of the site and the potential for marking it. Often these sites become a place of pilgrimage for immediate and future generations who want to remember and celebrate the life of their loved one.

The decision to scatter should be chosen carefully. Although the act of scattering over land or water may have idyllic appeal to some, it is an irreversible decision. Funeral and cemetery professionals see the emotional results this can cause years later for some survivors, and family and friends who have come to regret that there is no permanent memorial site. The emotional value of establishing a permanent site is worthy of consideration."

How to Scatter Ashes on Land

Cremated remains bear little resemblance to ashes; they look and behave a lot like small-grained gravel. However, there are some fine-grains mixed in so be sure to check the wind direction before scattering into the air or a body of water.

The technique of trenching is another option. Dig a small trench in the location of your choice, place the remains (or a biodegradable urn containing the ashes) within, and cover with soil.

Raking is another technique used. Pour the remains on the surface of the soil and use a rake to mix the ashes.

How to Scatter Ashes on Water

After choosing a special place for the scattering to take place, make sure you bring the right tools. For instance, some urns required a screwdriver to open and most cremated remains are contained in strong plastic bags, sealed with a zip-tie, that may require scissors.

While many families choose to to scatter at sea or another body of water on their own, there many companies that offer scattering at sea or memorial boat cruises. Here are some local businesses that offer such services:

Golden Eagle Boat Charters

Granville Island Boat Rentals
 
Westcoast Memorials at Sea
 
BC Boat Rentals

You may also wish to check out our selection of scattering urns prior to making plans for your ceremony. Should you need advice on how to design a meaningful ceremony, feel free to call us at (604) 936-9987.