Sky Lanterns Banned in Sterling Heights
Sterling Heights City Coucil has banned the sale and use of sky lanterns.
The Sterling Heights City Council signed an ordinance this week banning the sale and use of sky lanterns. City Fire Chief Chris Martin says there have been numerous complaints of the lamps landing in residential areas and causing minor damage.
He says there is only one exception to using a sky lantern in the city.
“If you can prove that it is required of your religion,” Martin says. “And then we have a process in which you will have to get a permit for. There will have some strict rules on how you can use the sky lanterns. “
Martin says those with a permit to use a sky lantern must keep it tethered and cannot release it in windy weather or near power lines and structures. He says anyone caught launching a lantern will be ticketed.
