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 Long Beach

Captain license

Not needed when the family scatters

Cremated Remains Disposer (CRD) registration

Inside Long Beach waters

Allowed with conditions

Long Beach Harbor and San Pedro Bay inside the federal breakwater; Pacific Ocean outside the breakwater

Ocean

3+ nautical miles from land

Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.

Inside the breakwater counts as inland (harbor) waters. The state allows scattering there if the spot is 500+ yards from any shoreline, pier or wharf. This is a busy commercial port with vessel traffic lanes and anchorages, so most operators go outside the breakwater and 3 nm from land for the EPA rule. The City of Long Beach is its own local registrar, separate from LA County. Long Beach Vital Records issues permits when the death or the 'final resting place' is in Long Beach (fee $12). Which office (Long Beach or LA County) takes the 10-day filing for ashes scattered off Long Beach was not confirmed; see open questions.

Full California guide: permits, paperwork and sources

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