[Adopted 9-5-2017 by Ord. No. 1504]
A. 
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.
B. 
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:
(1) 
Balloons released by a person on behalf of a government agency or pursuant to a governmental contract for scientific or meteorological purposes.
(2) 
Hot air balloons that are recovered after launching.
(3) 
Balloons released indoors.
C. 
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.
A. 
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.
B. 
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.