How to Be Legally Buried at Sea 

And it’s true. According to the website, you can easily be buried at sea, as long as you follow a few rules set by the EPA (In fact, it’s probably easier to be buried at sea than to renew your driver’s license).

If you’re interested in opting for a water burial, here are a few rules you’ll have to follow:

• First, you’ll have to obtain an MPRSA (Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act) general permit. This allows for any human remains being transported from the U.S. into nearby ocean waters. However, you do not need to apply for a permit prior to burial, as long as you apply for one within 30 days of the burial. You can find and contact your local region’s EPA representative to apply.
• You do not have to be cremated, but if you’re choosing to be buried in a casket, the casket must contain a minimum of 20 two-inch holes, must weigh at least 300 pounds, and can’t float (for obvious reasons).
• If you’re forgoing a casket, the EPA recommends wrapping a natural fiber or cloth and adding additional weight, so that your body sinks. Materials that are not easily degraded, like plastic, are not allowed with your body.
• Human remains must be released at least three miles away from any U.S. shore.
• If you’re a military veteran, you may be able to make special arrangements through the U.S. Navy or Coast Guard.