How to Scatter Ashes in a National Park (Permits, Rules & Fees by Park)

What the National Park Service Actually Requires

The NPS allows ash scattering in most — not all — of its 400+ units. The catch: each park sets its own rules, and most popular parks require a Special Use Permit before you scatter.

The general NPS requirements are straightforward. Ashes must be fully dispersed across a wide area, with no visible piles, markers, plaques, or monuments left behind. Location restrictions, including distances from developed areas, trails, and water, are park-specific; follow the permit and the park office's instructions.

Ask the park's Special Park Uses office for the current application form. Processing can take up to six weeks, so submit at least six weeks in advance. Among the parks listed below, fees range from no fee to a $185 application fee.

Park-by-Park Rules and Fees

Yosemite National Park requires a permit and mandates scattering at least 100 yards from any watercourse or dry creek bed. The ceremony must be out of sight of public areas. Permit processing is free.

Rocky Mountain National Park allows scattering with a free permit. Follow the location restrictions listed in the permit.

Grand Teton National Park processes permits at no charge. Follow the location restrictions listed in the permit.

Zion National Park charges a $25 application fee. Check the permit for the approved location and any trail restrictions.

Joshua Tree National Park limits scattering to a single pre-approved area listed on the permit. The park is strict about this — scattering in an unpermitted location can result in a $500 fine.

Yellowstone National Park requires a permit. Follow the location restrictions listed in the permit.

Arches National Park charges $185 for the permit application — the highest fee among popular NPS sites.

Grand Canyon National Park prohibits scattering entirely. The park made this decision following consultations with 11 affiliated Native American tribes who consider the practice disrespectful on sacred land. If the Grand Canyon holds meaning for your family, consider a nearby location on BLM land or Kaibab National Forest instead.

How to Apply for the Permit

Contact the specific park's Special Park Uses Coordinator — not the general visitor center number. You'll need:

• Full name of the deceased and date of passing
• Proposed scattering location (be specific — trail name, GPS coordinates if possible)
• Estimated group size and preferred date
• Name and contact information of the permit holder

Submit at least six weeks before your planned ceremony. Some parks accommodate shorter timelines, but don't count on it during peak season.

What to Do If the Park You Want Prohibits Scattering

Several parks besides Grand Canyon restrict or prohibit ash scattering. Nearby National Forest or Bureau of Land Management property may have different requirements; contact the local land manager before planning. State park rules also vary by location.

The Scattering Ashes toolkit includes a Location GPS and Verification Log and the permit request letter template, so the application process stays organized from submission through the ceremony itself.