Scattering of Ashes Permit

If you would like to scatter the remains of your loved one within Grand Teton National Park and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway there are restrictions and conditions enumerated in a Scattering of Ashes Permit which requires an application to be submitted by email to [e-mail] at least two weeks prior before the planned date for scattering ashes.

The conditions pertaining to this activity are outlined in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 2.62 (b), which states: "the scattering of human ashes from cremation is prohibited, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit, or in designated areas according to conditions which may be established by the superintendent." Grand Teton National Park and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway does not have designated areas for the scattering of human remains from cremation established by the Superintendent. The scattering of human remains from cremation anywhere in the park or parkway requires a permit which terms and conditions generally include the following:

• The scattering of cremains cannot be within 100 yards of a flowing stream, river, or body of water and must not be in developed areas or on historic properties, paved roads, walkways, on trails, bridges, campgrounds, picnic areas, or buildings.
• Discretion should be exercised in the spreading of cremains; doing so is generally a very private movement and care should be given to not disturb other park visitors. Therefore, the spreading of cremains should not be where or when the visiting public is present.
• The activity shall not restrict park visitors from any location; therefore, sites which attract a large number of visitors must be avoided. Normal visitor use patterns will not be interrupted. This permit shall not grant exclusive use of any area.
• The scattering of cremains must not be distinguishable to the public and must be broadly scattered to blend into surroundings quickly. The remains must be pulverized and result in a complete dispersal of ashes so that no obvious piles remain in any one place, this includes the cremation identification disc.
• No container, urn, or memorial markers of any kind shall be left behind.
• Activities that may damage, significantly impact, or alter park resources are prohibited (e.g., altering, damaging, or removing vegetation or vehicle use off established roads and parking areas).
• Vehicles will abide by state and federal laws/regulations. Parking is allowed in designated parking areas only and pull safely out of traffic lanes without damaging resources. Unauthorized parking may be subject to violation notices.
• Launching, landing or operating unmanned aerial devices including drones, model airplanes, quadcopters etc. is prohibited.

Permit activities may be restricted based on weather or seasonal conditions (fire danger, standing water, nesting season, road closures, etc.) and temporary & wildlife closures. Use limits and /or restricted activities are listed in the Superintendent's Compendium. Pursuant 36 CFR § 2.17 Aircraft and air delivery (a) The following are prohibited: (3) Delivering or retrieving a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means, except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss, or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit. Grand Teton National Park is not issuing permits at this time for dispersing of ashes via aircraft.

Application Process

1. Complete the Scattering Ashes Special Use Permit Application form. Applicants should attach maps, diagrams, and other information that might assist park staff in evaluating the application. There is no fee for this activity.

2. Email completed application to [e-mail] at least two weeks before the planned date for scattering ashes.

3. Your request will be evaluated based on the information in your application. A permit will be drafted for your review and signature prior to the permit being finalized and returned to you.

4. The final permit must be in your possession at the time of the event and rangers may request to review it.

For questions, e-mail us or call 307-739-3616.