Can you scatter ashes in the Chesapeake Bay?

However, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, there are specific guidelines that must be followed when scattering ashes in the Chesapeake Bay.

Maryland

- Ashes must be scattered at least 3 miles offshore in Maryland waters.

- The ashes must be scattered in small quantities over a wide area.

- All human remains being disposed of in Maryland state waters must be cremated and reduced to the "consistency of coarse sand" before being scattered.

- No part of the human remains may be visible on the water’s surface.

- A permit must be obtained from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources prior to scattering ashes.

Virginia

- In Virginia, there is no law prohibiting the scattering of ashes in the Chesapeake Bay, but it is recommended that individuals notify the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality at least 24 hours in advance if they plan to do so.

Federal Law

- Under the Clean Water Act, it is illegal to discharge any pollutant into U.S. waters without a permit from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, the EPA has exempted the scattering of human remains from this requirement, provided that it is done in a manner that does not harm the environment.