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What to expect in Pensacola
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 Pensacola
Captain license
Not required
Inside Pensacola waters
Not settled
Pensacola Bay / Santa Rosa Sound; Gulf of Mexico via Pensacola Pass
Ocean
3+ nautical miles from land
Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.
Shallow Gulf water is fine for ashes - EPA sets no depth rule for cremated remains, only the 3 nm distance from land (barrier islands count as land). From downtown Pensacola it is about 8-10 nm across Pensacola Bay to Pensacola Pass, then 3 nm offshore - roughly 11-13 nm (estimate). NAS Pensacola has security zones at the pass/bay. Whole-body burials west of Pensacola need 1,800 ft depth (not an issue for ashes). Pensacola Bay is inside water - no clear state rule.
Full Florida guide: permits, paperwork and sourcesLast checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.