Purpose and intent. 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 aerial
luminary lanterns and helium balloons into the atmosphere. The balloons
include latex and Mylar, as it has been determined that the release
of balloons inflated with lighter-than-air gases poses a danger and
nuisance to the environment, particularly to wildlife and marine animals.
Also, when a Mylar balloon contacts a power line, its metallic properties
can cause the equipment to short-circuit. The spark could lead to
a power outage and/or fire. These balloons tend to constitute a public
nuisance and may pose a threat to the safety of its inhabitants and
their property.
Release prohibited; exceptions. It shall be unlawful for any person,
firm or corporation to intentionally release, organize the release
of or intentionally cause to be released balloons inflated with gas
that is lighter than air within the Borough of Stone Harbor limits,
except for:
Violations and penalties. A person, firm, or corporation violating
any provision of this section shall, upon conviction thereof, be subject
to a fine of no more than $500.
Release prohibited. No person, firm or corporation shall release
or cause to be released an aerial luminary, commonly known as "sky
lantern," "Hawaii lantern," "Kongming lantern," "Chinese lantern,"
"sky candle," "fire balloon," or "flying luminary," or any other device
that uses or carries an open flame within the Borough limits. As used
in this section, "aerial luminary" means an airborne paper lantern
containing a candle or other device for fuel that heats air from inside
the lantern, causing the lantern to rise into the air and remain airborne
until the candle or fuel extinguishes.
Violations and penalties. A person, firm, or corporation violating
any provision of this section shall, upon conviction thereof, be subject
to a fine of no more than $500.