Burial At Sea. Permit required?

Question

First I would like to apologize for my obtuseness on this matter and what may seem a foolish question; I have no experience in things of this nature so I will admit to knowing next to nothing about the legalities of it. But to the subject matter at hand.

Back in 1997 my father passed away. It was his wish to be cremated and to eventually have his ashes scattered at sea. Now, 11 years later, my mom is ready to part with his remains so that he can finally be at peace. However, we are all uncertain on how to go about this.

We've looked online and found numerous companies that offer Burial At Sea services, but we would like for this to be private service among family only. Do we have to make arrangements (with one of these companies or elsewhere) to perform this type of service? Is a permit required to scatter his ashes? Even if we were to charter a private boat? What all would this type of service (basic, but private) entail or require? We are flying out to Southern California next week to do this and would like for it to take place around the Redondo Beach area, where he was most fond of. Any information that can be provided would be MOST helpful. Thank you.

Answer 1

No permission for required for a sea burial.

Answer 2

I think you have to be a certain distance from the shipping lanes and from land first.  I remember hearing somewhere that it was like a mile out maybe two.  Check with the DNR of that area to be sure though.