Is it Legal to Scatter Pet Ashes in the UK?

After the death and cremation of a pet, pet parents may find themselves seeking answers to questions such as if it is legal to scatter pet ashes in the UK and the appropriate locations for doing so.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the laws and regulations of scattering pet ashes in the UK. We’ll delve into the legal and environmental regulations that surround it, the various locations where you can scatter pet ashes, and the preparations and guidelines you should consider.

Legal Regulations for Scattering Pet Ashes in the UK

According to the government, it is legal to scatter pet ashes in the UK.

The following are the legal considerations that you must follow, which are valid for pet ashes (and human ashes as well).

Is it Legal to Scatter Pet Ashes at Your Own Land in the UK?

In the UK, it is legal and you do not need formal permission to scatter the ashes from a single pet cremation on your own property. This provides a personal and intimate way to remember your pet. It’s your own space, where you can find solace and closure.

Is it Allowed to Scatter Pet Ashes on Someone Else’s Land in the UK?

If you wish to scatter your pet’s ashes on someone else’s property, you must seek permission from the landowner. This not only shows respect for their land but also ensures that everyone is on the same page.

Is it Legal to Scatter Pet Ashes on the Water in the UK?

Scattering pet ashes across surface water refers to bodies of water that are visible on the Earth’s surface, such as rivers and lakes.

If you choose to scatter ashes across surface water, there are some essential legal considerations to keep in mind. They are mainly related to safeguarding the environment.

• It’s important to ensure that the impact on the environment and wildlife is kept to a minimum.
• You are not allowed to include casting wreaths or memorabilia along with the pet ashes. These items can potentially harm the environment and wildlife. You can include biodegradable items if you wish so though, like flowers.
• In addition, pay attention to if there are any individuals who may be using the watercourse. You must not scatter your pet ashes if this is the case, so stay away from spots where there are fishermen, swimmers or surfers. This also means that you should avoid scattering your pet ashes if that area is used for water extraction.

So yes, it’s legal and it’s allowed to scatter pet’s ashes on the water as long as you follow those guidelines. This means that it is legal to scatter pet ashes at the sea or the beach in the UK.

Scattering or Burying Ash at a Pet Cemetery

Pet cemeteries are serene and respectful places where many pet owners choose to lay their beloved companions to rest.

If you’re considering scattering your pet’s ashes in one of them, there are important legal guidelines provided by the UK government that you should be aware of. Particularly if you are in England.

Legal Guidelines for England

In England, the government has established clear conditions and regulations that must be adhered to when using a pet cemetery for the scattering or burial of pet ashes. These official guidelines aim to safeguard both the environment and public health.

Conditions You Must Comply With:

• Pet Cemetery Registration: You must only scatter or bury ashes at a pet cemetery that is registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency. This registration ensures that the facility meets certain standards and maintains a respectful and environmentally responsible environment.
• Quantity Limit: When burying ashes, you may only bury up to an average of 20kg of ash per square metre.
  Most pet owners will not need to be too worried about this. Experts in pet cremation say you will get back around 3.5% of your pet’s weight before they were cremated. So you will probably only need to be aware of this if you are scattering the ashes of a horse or a pet pig.
• Avoid Grazing Land: It’s essential not to bury or scatter ash on land used for grazing animals. This practice helps protect both animal health and the integrity of the grazing areas.

Is it Allowed to Scatter Pet Ashes on National Trust Land?

The National Trust is renowned for its stewardship of picturesque coastal and countryside locations across England.

These beautiful and historically significant sites are not only treasured for their natural beauty but also serve as meaningful locations for scattering ashes.

The National Trust does not have a formal policy specifically addressing the scattering of pet ashes.

Still, they do provide guidelines for those who wish to carry out this practice on their properties:

Environmental Considerations: The National Trust is keen on protecting the environment and ensuring that scattering ashes does not pose any environmental problems. This includes preventing possible contamination of watercourses or sources.

Respect for Wishes: The National Trust respects the wishes of donors who may have expressed preferences regarding the scattering of ashes. If there are specific requests or restrictions in place, they should be honored.

Discreet and Private: The act of scattering ashes should be conducted discreetly and in private. It should not interfere with others’ enjoyment of the property.

No Visual Presence: It is expected that visitors to the property should not be able to see any visual presence of ashes. The scattering process should be carried out in a way that leaves no lasting marks or indications of the act.

Permission from the National Trust: To scatter ashes on National Trust land, individuals are encouraged to make local arrangements with the General Manager or Property Manager at the specific property. Consent can be granted if the conditions outlined by the National Trust can be met.

For a heartfelt farewell in England’s most beautiful settings, consider National Trust locations such as Stourhead in Wiltshire, known for its landscaped gardens. Or Trelissick in Cornwall, with its stunning river views and vibrant gardens.

Before You Go…

As you contemplate the perfect place to scatter your pet’s ashes, we invite you to read this post about ideas for scattering pet ashes to learn about heartfelt ways to honor your pet’s memory by scattering their ashes with grace and meaning.

Additionally, you can take a look at this post about other ideas for things to do with your dog’s ashes if you are still not sure about scattering them.

For example, you might be doubting about keeping pet ashes at home instead of scattering them. We invite you to read our post about the energetic effects of keeping pet ashes at home. There we talk about what ancient traditions, such as vastu and feng-shui, have to say about it.

Are you traveling from outside the UK to scatter your pet’s ashes there? You might want to read this post about traveling with pet ashes internationally. You will find all the information about the rules and regulations for entering the UK with ashes.

We hope that our guidance and insights have been helpful in your journey to commemorate your beloved companion in a meaningful and respectful way.