Map view
What to expect in Key Biscayne
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 Key Biscayne
Captain license
Not required
Inside Key Biscayne waters
Not settled
Biscayne Bay; Atlantic Ocean off Key Biscayne / Cape Florida
Ocean
3+ nautical miles from land
Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.
Biscayne National Park starts just south of Key Biscayne and covers southern Biscayne Bay and ocean water off it. Inside the park, ash scattering needs a National Park Service Special Park Use Permit (apply by mail, at least 15 business days ahead; BISC_Permits@nps.gov, 786-335-3620), must be at least 3 nm from land, and paid boat operators in the park need a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA). Going straight east off Key Biscayne to 3 nm (about 3-4 nm from Cape Florida, estimate) may keep you north of the park - check the park boundary on your chart. Northern Biscayne Bay (outside the park) is inside water with no clear state rule.
Full Florida guide: permits, paperwork and sourcesLast checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.