Map view
What to expect in Tampa
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 Tampa
Captain license
Not required
Inside Tampa waters
Not settled
Hillsborough Bay; Tampa Bay; Gulf of Mexico past Egmont Key
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 Tampa it is roughly 30-35 nm down Hillsborough Bay and Tampa Bay to the mouth past Egmont Key, plus 3 nm offshore (estimate) - a long run; many families instead go out of St. Pete Beach or Clearwater. Tampa Bay is inside the bay closing line, so it is NOT 'ocean' under the EPA permit and no clear state rule covers scattering there. Port Tampa Bay and MacDill AFB have Coast Guard security/restricted zones.
Full Florida guide: permits, paperwork and sourcesLast checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.