Scattering Ashes in Maine – Good News for US Families
A good number of our readers come from overseas — especially the United States — and it’s always satisfying when I can offer something genuinely helpful from across the pond. Last week I wrote about how relaxed the law is in Oregon when it comes to scattering ashes; this week it seems Maine is equally sensible.
A reader contacted Sunspots (the community Q&A column) asking a simple but important question:
“Can one spread their ashes on the ground at the cemetery on our plot?”
To answer it, Sunspots reached out to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, who directed them to the official guidance at Maine.gov. Buried within the FAQs is the key legal reference:
What Maine Law Actually Says
According to Title 13, Chapter 83, §1032:
“Cremated human remains may be deposited in a niche of a columbarium or a crypt of a mausoleum, buried, or disposed of in any manner not contrary to law.”
In other words, Maine’s law does not restrict how or where ashes may be scattered, provided the act itself doesn’t break any other statute. The State recommends getting permission on private land, but that is guidance, not limitation.
It is strikingly similar to the situation in the UK:
the law itself is easy — the permissions are the tricky part.
A Nice Bit of Extra Detail
Sunspots also included a helpful explanation (sourced via Wikipedia) of what a columbarium is:
“A place for the respectful and usually public storage of cinerary urns…
The term comes from the Latin columba (dove) and originally referred to compartmentalised housing for pigeons.”
A lovely bit of etymology and, I think, a reminder that even the most modern funerary practices often have surprisingly ancient roots.
Practical Realities for Families
Like the UK, the real barrier isn’t the law — it’s permission, especially for:
Cemeteries with their own regulations
Private woodland or farmland
Beauty spots where land ownership is unclear
For families wanting a simple, low-fuss ceremony, Maine’s flexibility is a real advantage. As ever, the key is to ask permission where required and to choose a location that feels meaningful yet practical.
If scattering on water is preferred, a biodegradable water urn can make the process gentler and more predictable — especially in breezy Maine coastal spots. We supply these internationally and they’re widely accepted in US waterways.