Memorialization (Scattering Ashes)

Permits

Some activities conducted in national parks often require a special use permit. The purpose of these permits is to ensure the protection of the park's natural and cultural resources, as well as to minimize conflicts between park visitors and your guests.

You must have a permit to scatter ashes in the park. Due to the cultural sensitivity of Arches National Park, we have several pre-authorized locations where we allow this activity.

Locations

The three areas approved for the scattering of human ashes are Salt Valley Wash, Winter Camp Wash, and Lower Courthouse Wash. View map here.

Regulations

• You may scatter ashes on land only, away from cultural features, in an area which will not impact other visitors.
• You may not leave any monument, cairn, or other marker at the site.
• You may not bury human ashes.
• Your event must comply with all other park regulations.

How to Apply

Please complete and submit NPS Form 10-930 [1,189 KB, fillable PDF] to the email address listed on the application form.

Applications are processed in the order they are received.

Permit Fees

APPLICATION FEE
The application fee for a memorialization permit is $185. Please pay via Pay.gov.

This fee covers the costs associated with providing initial contact and consultation with permittees, initial review of a standard application, and the costs associated with issuing a standard permit, which includes, but is not limited to, the average time it takes for processing fees, permit development, consultations with the permittee, managerial consultations, and billing. The application fee and permit processing fees are non-refundable once the permit office has received your permit application. Requested and alternate dates are not guaranteend to be available or approved.

Applicants should submit payments via Pay.gov. To make a payment:

• Enter "ARCH" in the Pay.gov search window.
• Payment will be made at: Canyonlands and Arches NP & Natural Bridges and Hovenweep NM Special Use Permit – click on “Continue."
• Check which park your Special Use Permit is for. Under Permit Fee click on Permit and select Scattering Ashes.
• Enter a total dollar amount of $185 for the type of Special Use Permit you are requesting.
• Follow the instructions and fill out the forms.
• Save your payment confirmation; you will submit this with your application.

 

Questions

For questions or additional information, please contact the Special Park Uses coordinator: email us.