State Guide: Ash Scattering in North Carolina

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

• State Flower: Dogwood 🌸
• State Tree: Longleaf Pine 🌳
• State Bird: Northern Cardinal 🐦
• State River: Neuse River 🌊
• State Stone: Emerald 💎
• State Song: "The Old North State" 🎶
• State Motto: "To Be, Rather Than to Seem" 🌟

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

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

In 2020, the cremation rate in North Carolina 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.

North Carolina 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 North Carolina

In North Carolina, 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:

Raleigh Memorial Park

• Location: Raleigh, NC
• Description: Spanning 50 acres, the grounds of Raleigh Memorial Park are shaded by tall pines and towering oaks planted as saplings. Dogwood trees and cheerful crepe myrtles that become explosions of pink in spring provide a colorful counterpoint to the expanse of Bermuda grass. Canadian geese return to the cemetery every fall.
• Website: Raleigh Memorial Park

Guilford Memorial Park

• Location: Greensboro, NC
• Description: A tranquil cemetery offering scattering garden services and cremation memorialization.
• Website: Guilford Memorial Park

Chapel Hill Memorial Cemetery

• Location: Chapel Hill, NC
• Description: A peaceful cemetery with options for cremation scattering and other memorial services. The Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation Department maintains the grounds and the Town’s records for four local cemeteries. Two of our Chapel Hill Cemeteries are historical cemeteries with deep cultural value to the community.
• Website: Chapel Hill Memorial Cemetery

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.