Your captain meets your group at the dock, takes you to the scattering spot, and gives you time for words, music, flowers or silence. Afterward, the captain records the coordinates of the scattering so your family always knows where it took place. Biodegradable urns and flowers can be ordered from our memorial store and delivered before your service.

Scattering rules in Carolina Beach

Captain license

Not settled

None specific to scattering found; possible overlap with funeral service license

Inside Carolina Beach waters

Allowed with conditions

Atlantic Ocean via Carolina Beach Inlet; Cape Fear River and ICW via Snows Cut

Ocean

3+ nautical miles from land

Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.

Ocean is right outside Carolina Beach Inlet; 3 nm offshore is a short run (roughly 3-4 nm, confirm on chart). Inside waters (Cape Fear River, ICW, Myrtle Grove Sound) are public waterways where state law allows scattering. On the lower Cape Fear River, avoid the Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point restricted waters (Army; see 33 CFR Part 334). New Hanover County.

Full North Carolina guide: permits, paperwork and sources

Last checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.