The 5 Most Common Questions Families Ask About Southern California Burial at Sea
Here are the five most common questions families ask about burial at sea in Southern California, along with comprehensive answers based on the latest information and regulations.
Is burial at sea legal in Southern California?
Yes, burial at sea is entirely legal in Southern California when performed according to federal and state regulations. Both full-body burials and the scattering of cremated remains are covered by a general permit under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). The remains (either cremated or non-cremated) must be placed at least three nautical miles from shore and in ocean waters at least 600 feet deep for a full-body burial. For cremated remains, water depth is not required, but the three-nautical-mile distance remains mandatory.
What permits or paperwork are required?
A burial permit from the county where the death occurred is required. If the death occurred in California, a permit from any county is acceptable as long as it specifies burial or scattering at sea off the California coast. For out-of-state deaths, families need to obtain a permit from the local county vital statistics office where the scattering will occur. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must be notified within 30 days of the burial at sea, usually by submitting a report online. No submission of the death certificate to the EPA is required—just the event notification.
How is the ceremony conducted, and can families participate?
Families may attend and participate in the ceremony, which is often a personalized and deeply meaningful experience. Providers allow for special requests, the inclusion of biodegradable flowers or wreaths, and tailored moments for remembrance. Most ceremonies are held in the early morning for calmer waters, and the precise distance from shore (always beyond three nautical miles) is selected in line with legal and family preferences. Both attended and unattended options are available, and the events can accommodate a wide range of group sizes.
What are the environmental requirements and best practices?
Environmental guidelines are strict. Only human remains (not pets or non-human remains) may be scattered or buried. Non-cremated remains must be enclosed in a fully biodegradable shroud or casket, weighted to ensure rapid and permanent sinking. Cremated remains may be contained in biodegradable urns, and only decomposable flowers or wreaths may be used for tributes—no plastic or synthetic materials. Providers also recommend checking that each element of the ceremony is ocean-safe and EPA-compliant.
How do families choose a provider and what should they consider?
Choosing a provider involves looking at their experience, local knowledge, types of services offered (full body, ashes, memorial reef options, attended or unattended), vessel size and suitability for the family's needs, and commitment to regulatory and environmental guidelines. Reputable businesses will be happy to explain their certification, equipment, and policies. Transparency about pricing and procedures, as well as personalized attention to the family's wishes, are also important indicators of a trusted provider.
Additional Topics Often Raised
Timing and planning: Most services are available weekdays and weekends. Advance booking (at least one week ahead) is recommended for attended services for the best planning and weather conditions.
Legal boundaries: No human remains (cremated or not) may be released within three nautical miles of shore or in non-permitted locations (inland lakes/streams are excluded).
Cost and memorial options: Burial at sea often offers flexible pricing and options ranging from basic unattended scatting to attended full ceremonies, sometimes including photography and memorial reefs.