Scattering Area
A scattering area is a separate area in the cemetery reserved for scattering the ashes of cremated persons. It is one of the post-cremation placement options alongside urn burial, memorial grove, and columbarium placement.
Scattering Area Practices
The scattering area is usually a beautiful, natural area on the edge of the cemetery. Ashes are scattered directly on the ground or lawn without an urn. The ceremony is usually small and intimate — family members can perform the scattering themselves or ask cemetery staff for assistance. The timing of the scattering is arranged in advance with the parish.
Differences from a Memorial Grove
A scattering area differs from a memorial grove in that in a memorial grove, ashes are placed in an urn in the ground, while in a scattering area, ashes are spread without an urn. The scattering area is a more anonymous option — most often there are no personal memorials in the area. Some cemeteries have a shared memorial plaque or board.
Scattering Ashes in Nature
Under Section 20 of the Burial Act, ashes may also be placed outside a cemetery, provided the permission of the landowner or water area owner has been obtained. The family can scatter ashes in a forest, lake, or sea, for example. The responsible person notifies the crematorium of the ash placement location. Ashes must be placed in their final resting place within one year of cremation. More information can be found in our cremation article.
Frequently asked questions
How does the scattering of ashes take place?
Ashes are scattered at the cemetery scattering area either by the family or with the assistance of cemetery staff. The scattering is usually done in a quiet ceremony. The ashes are spread on the ground or lawn and blend into nature over time.
Is there a name plaque at the scattering area?
The scattering area is traditionally an anonymous area with no personal memorials. Some cemeteries, however, have a shared memorial board where the deceased's name can be added. Practices vary by parish.
Can ashes be scattered in nature?
Yes. Under the Burial Act, ashes may be placed outside a cemetery with the permission of the landowner or water area owner. The family can scatter ashes in a forest, lake, or sea, for example. Ashes must be placed within one year of cremation.
Related terms
A burial method where the deceased is cremated in a crematorium furnace. Ashes are placed in an urn grave, memorial grove, or scattered.
A designated area in a cemetery where ashes are placed anonymously or with a name plaque. Maintenance is the responsibility of the parish.
A post-cremation burial method where the urn containing ashes is placed in a grave or columbarium niche.
A facility where cremation of the deceased is carried out. Finland has approximately 20 crematoria.
Read also
Cremation in Finland: the process, ash placement options, legislation, and costs. A comprehensive guide to cremation and urn burial.
Memorial grove as a burial option in Finland: named and unnamed memorial groves, costs, and practices. A guide to choosing a memorial grove.
A complete guide to scattering ashes in nature in Finland: Metsähallitus permits, the Burial Act, landowner permission, and practical advice for forest and water.