Colorado is one of the most popular places in the country to scatter ashes, and its rules are relatively relaxed. There is no state law that tightly controls where ashes can go. What matters is who manages the land, and each manager sets its own expectations. Here is a general guide. It is not legal advice, so please confirm with the agency or landowner before you go.

Private land

You can scatter ashes on your own property. On someone else's land, ask the owner for permission first.

National parks

The National Park Service generally asks for a permit, which is usually free and can be requested through the park. Rocky Mountain National Park, for example, asks that ashes be scattered away from developed areas and well away from lakes and streams. Some parks do not allow scattering at all, so contact the specific park before you plan anything.

BLM land

The Bureau of Land Management generally allows small, private, non-commercial scattering without a permit, as long as it is low-impact, away from busy visitor areas, and consistent with any closures. The local field office can answer questions about specific locations. National forests The Forest Service does not have a single national rule on scattering. Practice varies by forest and ranger district, and some forests do not allow it, so check with the district office. A short, private, low-impact ceremony is the usual expectation where it is allowed.

State parks, city parks and open space

Rules vary a lot. Some state parks and city parks restrict or prohibit scattering, and county open space has its own policies. Contact the park or agency in advance.

Scattering by plane

Colorado has no state law specifically about scattering ashes from an aircraft. Federal aviation rules, however, prohibit dropping objects from an aircraft in a way that could endanger people or property, so the flight should be handled by a professional pilot who knows the rules. A good aerial service will also help you choose a location that fits your wishes and the rules of the land below.

Homeward Bound has been scattering ashes by plane over Colorado since 1993. If you would like to talk through your options, call (720) 320-2093.