Can you scatter ashes at Bryant-Denny Stadium? Stadium tops wish list

• Wrigley Field (Chicago)
• Fenway Park (Boston)
• Madison Square Garden (New York)
• Lambeau Field (Green Bay)
• Dodger Stadium (Los Angeles)
• Notre Dame Stadium (South Bend)

When asked why stadiums matter so much, fans pointed to emotion and identity over anything else.

Many described stadiums as places tied to childhood memories, family traditions and lifelong fandom. Others said the venues feel like a “second home,” where some of their most meaningful life experiences happened.

Would fans actually do it?

Of the 3,000 sports fans surveyed, 64% would choose the field or court as their preferred location, while 32% would prefer to have it done outside the stadium. As for family members honoring the request, 49% said they would be comfortable doing so but unsure how to do so.

Is it legal to spread ashes in a sports stadium?

In most cases, no, at least not without permission.

Stadiums such as Bryant-Denny Stadium are private property, meaning any request to scatter ashes must be approved by the university or the facility's operators. Without that consent, the act can violate stadium policies and be treated as trespassing or unauthorized use of the venue.

Even beyond access rules, stadium operators have noted practical concerns. Cremated remains can affect playing surfaces, potentially damaging turf or creating maintenance issues that require cleanup.

Despite that, the survey suggests the idea still resonates emotionally with some fans. About 23% said they would consider scattering ashes in a stadium even if it wasn’t allowed.

Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter in Alabama for USA TODAY’s Deep South Connect Team. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Can you scatter ashes at Bryant Denny Stadium? Some fans wish they could