Burial at Sea in the United States
State-by-state guide to the laws, costs, EPA regulations, and how the process works
Federal EPA Rules Apply Nationwide. All burial at sea in US waters must comply with the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). Ash scattering requires a minimum distance of 3 nautical miles from shore. Full body burial requires at least 600 feet water depth and 3+ nautical miles offshore. EPA notification is required within 30 days.
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We currently cover the most active burial at sea markets. Additional states coming soon.
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Federal EPA Requirements for Burial at Sea
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) governs all burial at sea activities in US territorial waters under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). Key federal requirements:
- Ash scattering: Minimum 3 nautical miles from shore. No permit required but EPA notification within 30 days of scattering.
- Full body burial: Minimum 3 nautical miles offshore and 600 feet (approximately 100 fathoms) water depth. Body must be prepared to prevent resurfacing (weighted/perforated casket).
- Biodegradable items only: Flowers, wreaths, and biodegradable urns are permitted. Plastic, metal, and non-biodegradable materials are not.
- No human-made structures: Unless specifically permitted by the US Army Corps of Engineers (relevant for memorial reefs/reef balls in some states).
- State regulations: Additional rules may apply depending on the state — see individual state pages for details.
⚓ Military Burial at Sea — US Navy Program
The US Navy provides burial at sea ceremonies at no charge to eligible individuals:
- Eligible: Active duty military, retired US military (all branches), and veterans with honorable discharge. Cremated remains of dependents of eligible service members may also qualify.
- Full body burial: Open to active duty military, retirees, and veterans only.
- Process: Apply through the Navy's Mortuary Affairs program. Ceremonies are conducted on Navy ships at sea — family is not typically present during the ceremony, but receives a certificate, flag, and coordinates after.
- Contact: mynavyhr.navy.mil or call the Navy Personnel Command at 1-866-827-5672.
For civilian ceremonies with military honors (attending chaplain, 21-gun salute, etc.), contact a licensed commercial provider in your state.
Legal Contacts
- US EPA — Ocean Dumping & Burial at Sea — The authoritative source for MPRSA regulations, permit requirements, and post-scattering notification forms. epa.gov/ocean-dumping/burial-sea
- US Army Corps of Engineers — Required for memorial reef (artificial reef) permits in coastal waters. District offices vary by region.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) — Relevant for activities near marine sanctuaries. sanctuaries.noaa.gov
Medical & Funeral Provider Contacts
- National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) — Directory of licensed funeral directors who can coordinate burial at sea logistics. nfda.org
- Cremation Association of North America (CANA) — Resources for families choosing cremation prior to ocean scattering. cremationassociation.org
Important: Always verify that your provider holds the required EPA notification confirmation and any state-specific permits before booking.