This article is adopted in order to protect the environment,
particularly the wildlife, and the health, safety and well-being of
persons and property by prohibiting the release of helium balloons
into the atmosphere, including latex and mylar, as it has been determined
that the release of balloons inflated with lighter-than-air gases
pose a danger and nuisance to the environment, particularly to wildlife
and marine animals so as to constitute a public nuisance and may pose
a threat to the safety of its inhabitants and their property.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to
intentionally release, organize the release, or intentionally cause
to be released balloons inflated with a gas that is lighter than air
within the Margate City limits, except tor:
A. Balloons released by a person on behalf of a governmental agency
or pursuant to a governmental contract for scientific or meteorological
purposes.
B. Hot air balloons that are recovered after launching.
C. Balloons released indoors.
Any person found in violation is guilty of a noncriminal infraction
punishable by a fine not to exceed the sum of $500.