State Guide: Ash Scattering in New Jersey

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

• State Flower: Violet 🌸
• State Tree: Northern Red Oak 🌳
• State Bird: Eastern Goldfinch 🐦
• State River: Delaware River 🌊
• State Stone: Franklinite ⛏️
• State Song: "I'm From New Jersey" 🎶
• State Motto: "Liberty and Prosperity" ⭐

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

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

In 2020, the cremation rate in New Jersey was approximately 50%, 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.

New Jersey law permits the scattering of ashes on private property (with the owner’s consent), in public parks with proper authorization, and in bodies of water following federal regulations. Several cemeteries and organizations have developed designated scattering gardens to accommodate this growing preference.

It is important to review local laws and regulations before scattering ashes in any location to ensure compliance and respect for the environment.

Examples of Ash Scattering Gardens in New Jersey

In New Jersey, 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:

1. Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery

• Location: Wrightstown, NJ
• Description: A veterans' cemetery offering a dedicated area for cremation scattering. The cemetery is a contemporary memorial type with all grave markers flush with ground level. It covers 225 acres and was designed to accommodate 171,000 veterans and their family members. To provide privacy and protection from the elements for the bereaved, a chapel and committal service shelter are provided. The United States and New Jersey State flags are flown in the front court of the chapel in tribute to all veterans buried in the cemetery.
• Website: BG Doyle Veterans Cemetery

Harleigh Cemetery and Crematory

• Location: Camden, NJ
• Description: Harleigh Cemetery is a magnificent historic cemetery and crematory located in Collingswood and Camden, New Jersey. Harleigh was established in 1885 is set on over 150 acres with rolling hills, lakes, thousands of mature trees with stunning monuments and mausoleums. The landscaping of Harleigh has received the most thoughtful attention, with winding roadways and beautiful backgrounds for artistic memorials. It is a sacred place to the memory of those who have passed with it's silent beauty. Harleigh has many notable burials including America's world poet Walt Whitman who wrote the famous groundbreaking collection 'Leaves of Grass.' Walt Whitman took great care in designing his final resting place and is visited by many each year. Harleigh is also home to Camden County Veterans Cemetery.
• Website: Harleigh Cemetery

Laurel Grove Cemetery

• Location: Totowa, NJ
• Description: Laurel Grove Cemetery is a nonsectarian cemetery serving families of all faiths and composed of over 200 acres in Totowa, New Jersey, just outside of New York City. It has many special features and details for families and friends to appreciate during their visits and includes mausoleums, chapels, and a crematory.
• Website: Laurel Grove Cemetery

Ocean County Memorial Park

• Location: Toms River, NJ
• Description: Ocean County Memorial Park is a nonsectarian cemetery with convenient locations in both Toms River and Waretown, New Jersey. We pride ourselves on the wide array of dignified memorialization choices and extensive services that we offer families to meet their individual needs. Care and compassion is provided in our superior customer service to all of our families. Our experienced state licensed family memorial counselors lend a guiding hand in helping with preplanning and at need arrangements. We offer financing and present many choices that will ensure you and your loved ones are honored with beauty and dignity.
• Website: Ocean County Memorial Park

Farmstead Scattering Garden

• Location: Mail-in service, Pennsylvania
• Description: Farmstead Scattering Garden offers a unique option for those who prefer a remote and tranquil resting place. Families can mail in cremated remains, and upon arrival, the ashes will be respectfully scattered on a working farm. This service allows families to customize their scattering experience, choosing a specific location and ceremony details without the need to travel.
• Website: Farmstead Scattering Garden
• Contact: Call or text (814) 450-5432 for more information.

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.