There are many hidden features and stories attached to Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Some of the strangest ones that I have heard are from the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Dumping loved one's ashes in DisneylandPhoto byColorado Martini Publishing LLC YouTube

According to several news articles, Disney parks struggle to prevent tourists from scattering ashes of loved ones. Disney Theme Parks seem to be popular choices for this end-of-life ritual to fulfill the last wishes of their loved ones.

It is alleged that that the park is reporting that people are getting caught in the act monthly. It happens often enough that the custodians use the code words “HEPA cleanup” or “Code A” to indicate a special cleanup of these ashes.

Disneyland Haunted MansionPhoto byColorado Martini Publishing LLC

In addition to Pirates, The Haunted Mansion also has chronic issues with ash dumping. Staff claim that visitors believe that by scattering the ashes on the ride, they join the ghosts and live at the theme park forever. When this occurs on rides, the park shuts down the ride or area.

Just a few years ago, a woman was spotted on the Disneyland Pirates of the Caribbean ride scattering an unidentified powdery substance into the water. The ride was closed, and police were informed. She was never found.

These ashes are considered human remains

"Cremains" are calcium phosphates and other trace minerals left after the cremation process. Since these do not break down further, cremated ashes will not dissolve in water but rather be swept away and dispersed by the natural movement of any body of water.

Dumping ashes in waterPhoto byU.S. Navy photo by Chief Journalist Alan J. Baribeau., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

No matter what Disney Park you are visiting, spreading loved one’s ashes violates the Health and Safety Code. Disney has made it clear that such incidents wouldn’t be tolerated or permitted.

This can't be ture?

Disney Parks list “cremated remains (e.g., urns, vases, boxes)” when answering, “what items are not permitted within Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park?.” It happens enough it is warranted to be listed in their FAQs.

Screenshot of Disneyland's FAQ Webpage showing what is not permitted in DisneylandPhoto byDisneyland Go Website

Human ashes have been said to be spread in flower beds, on bushes, and on Magic Kingdom lawns; outside the park gates and during fireworks displays; on Pirates of the Caribbean and in the moat underneath the flying elephants of the Dumbo ride.

Disney parks are on top of this situation. They usually catch the offenders and do an extensive cleanup. If you don't want your loved one ending up in a vacuum cleaner and trash dumpster, I suggest you spread their ashes the right way and legally.