State Guide: Ash Scattering in Washington State
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If you are thinking of scattering ashes in the state of Washington, it may be helpful to know the official symbols:
- State Flower: Coast Rhododendron 🌺
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State Tree: Western Hemlock 🌲
- State Bird: Willow Goldfinch 🐦
- State River: Columbia River 🌊
- State Stone: Petrified Wood 🪨
- State Song: "Washington, My Home" 🎶
- State Motto: "Alki" (By and By) ⏳
How prevalent is the practice of scattering cremated ashes or cremains in Washington?
The practice of scattering ashes has become increasingly popular in Washington, reflecting a broader national trend toward cremation and personalized memorials. While specific statistics on ash scattering in Washington are limited, cremation has seen a significant rise.
In 2020, the cremation rate in Washington was approximately 78%, one of the highest in the nation, 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.
Washington law permits the scattering of ashes on private property (with the owner’s consent), on uninhabited public land, and in waterways, provided the remains are finely processed. Several cemeteries have developed designated scattering gardens to accommodate this growing preference.
Examples of Ash Scattering Gardens in Washington
In Washington, 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:
Evergreen Washelli Cemetery's Scattering Garden
- Location: Seattle, WA
- Description: Families have trusted Evergreen Washelli Cemetery for generations. We have served the Seattle community for over 135 years, and the 144-acre memorial park provides a wide range of burial services and is renowned for being the largest, most scenic and historic cemetery in Seattle.
- Website: Evergreen Washelli Cemetery
Sunset Hills Memorial Park & Funeral Home
- Location: Bellevue, WA
- Description: Sunset Hills Memorial Park began serving families in the Greater Eastside in 1936. Our new celebration of life center opened in 2024. It's the perfect venue for remembering a loved one with a personalized event like no other. Our professional teams know just what to do to honor special lives. Listening to each family’s needs and ideas, we make thoughtful suggestions and consider every detail to create memorable memorials.
- Website: Sunset Hills Memorial Park
Tahoma National Cemetery's Scattering Garden
- Location: Kent, WA
- Description: Tahoma National Cemetery was established November 11, 1993, and opened for interments on October 1, 1997. The cemetery was dedicated on September 26, 1997. A small expansion project was completed in March 2006. The $6 million project included over 12,000 new columbarium niches, more than 5,000 pre-placed crypts, road improvements, new signage, a third committal shelter and a third funeral cortege lane at the Public Information Center. Phase II of the expansion project was completed in June, 2014. The $24 million project included over 14,000 new columbarium niches, more than 9,000 pre-placed crypts, 6,000 in-ground garden cremation sites, two memorial walls and an ossuary. Two new roads for accessing the new burial sections were constructed using permeable asphalt. The three new columbarium complexes contain rain gardens and bio swales to help mitigate the need for storm water runoff and retention ponds.
- Website: Tahoma National Cemetery
Mountain View Memorial Park's Cremation Garden
- Location: Lakewood, WA
- Description: Since 1915, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the Tacoma 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: Mountain View Memorial Park
When considering scattering ashes in Washington, it's essential to consult with the chosen location or service provider to understand their specific policies and any necessary permissions. Additionally, always ensure that the scattering process aligns with local regulations and respects the environment.
Are there mail-in options for ash scattering services?
If you are looking for a way to celebrate your loved one, consider a customizable mail-in ash scattering ceremony. We’ve simplified the process by offering a mail-in service. With Farmstead Scattering Garden, 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.