Burial at Sea in Florida
Florida Burial at Sea — Legal Overview
Florida is one of the most active burial at sea markets in the United States, with both Atlantic and Gulf Coast access and a large community of licensed maritime operators. All ocean burial activities in Florida must comply with federal EPA rules under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act.
- Ash scattering distance: Minimum 3 nautical miles from shore (federal EPA rule). Most Florida providers use 4–6 miles to ensure clear compliance.
- EPA notification: Required within 30 days of scattering. Reputable providers handle this on your behalf.
- Full body burial: Minimum 3 nautical miles offshore and 600 feet water depth. Full body burial is relatively rare in Florida but available through select operators.
- Florida Department of Health: Funeral directors coordinating full body burial at sea must comply with Florida Statute Chapter 497 and must be licensed by the state.
- Biodegradable items only: Flowers, petals, and biodegradable urns permitted. Wreaths must be biodegradable.
- No state permit required for ash scattering, but EPA post-scattering notification is mandatory.
Burial at Sea in South Florida
Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and the Florida Keys — South Florida's warm Atlantic waters and year-round boating season make it one of the most active burial at sea markets in the country. Both the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay are accessible to licensed operators in the region.
South Florida providers typically depart from marinas in Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), and the Florida Keys. Charter vessels range from intimate sailboats to larger motor yachts accommodating family groups of 20–40.
Burial at Sea in Tampa & the Gulf Coast
Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Naples — The Gulf of Mexico's calm, warm waters provide a distinctive setting for ocean memorials. Gulf Coast ceremonies benefit from stunning sunset views, particularly popular for evening scattering ceremonies.
Gulf Coast operators in Clearwater and Sarasota frequently offer combined memorial packages with floral tribute, sunset timing, and GPS-documented scattering coordinates provided to the family.
Frequently Asked Questions — Florida
How far offshore must ash scattering occur in Florida?
Under federal EPA rules, ash scattering must occur at least 3 nautical miles from shore. Most Florida providers scatter at 4–6 miles offshore for clear compliance and to avoid any turbulence from nearshore traffic.
Do I need a permit to scatter ashes in the ocean in Florida?
No permit is required for ash scattering, but EPA post-scattering notification is mandatory within 30 days. Reputable providers complete this paperwork as a standard part of their service.
Can family members attend the ceremony?
Yes — most Florida providers offer both unattended scattering (provider scatters on your behalf, typically lower cost) and attended charter ceremonies where family boards the vessel. Charter capacity typically ranges from 6 to 40+ guests depending on the vessel.
What does burial at sea cost in Florida?
Unattended ash scattering: $295–$695. Private charter ash scattering ceremony: $695–$2,500 depending on vessel size and duration. Full body burial at sea: $3,500–$8,000+. Eco-memorial reef placement: $3,500–$7,500.
Legal Contacts
- US EPA — Burial at Sea Program — Provides post-scattering notification form (required within 30 days) and official regulations. epa.gov/ocean-dumping
- Florida Department of Health — Division of Funeral, Cemetery & Consumer Services — Licenses and regulates Florida funeral directors who coordinate full body burial at sea. myfloridalicense.com
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) — Governs boating and coastal activity regulations that apply to charter vessels. myfwc.com
Medical & Funeral Contacts
- Florida Funeral Directors Association (FFDA) — Directory of licensed Florida funeral directors; many coordinate burial at sea logistics. ffda.org
- National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) — National directory and resources. nfda.org
Important: Always verify your provider's credentials, vessel license, and EPA compliance documentation before booking.