Celebrations in Laguna are Deflating Amidst Balloon Ban

In an effort to protect the environment, Laguna Beach City Council has banned the use of all balloons on public or city-owned property. 

The Laguna Beach City Council voted in favor of a balloon ban that would prohibit the selling, purchasing, and use of all balloons except for private events held on private property. The ban comes in light of an effort from local officials to better protect the surrounding environment. 

The city ordinance clearly states that: 

• No Person (defined below) that sells or distributes balloons of any kind, whether filled or unfilled, shall be permitted to sell or distribute any balloon.

• No Person shall intentionally release any balloon, regardless of fill, into the air.

• No Person shall use any balloon on any public area, including any public street, park, beach, sidewalk, recreational area or other City-owned or controlled property.

• No Person shall use any balloon at any City-sponsored event. 

The Laguna Beach officials released a statement regarding the ban: "The City of Laguna Beach is dedicated to protecting its environment and mitigating the harmful impacts of balloons coming into contact with ocean life, wildlife, and powerlines. Balloon debris on city beaches, parks, streets, and trails is prolific and contributes to plastic and microplastic pollution, despite state laws and regulations that prohibit littering."

Laguna residents have plenty of questions regarding this new ordinance and how they can ensure that they are within the legal limits should an occasion take place wanting balloons. All questions and particulars regarding the ordinance can be found on the city website.

The prioritization of the environment and wildlife is a central concern for local officials. The City of Laguna Beach is home to a beautiful coastline and public beaches. City officials do not want this ban to be viewed negatively, but instead, as a means to protect the publicly shared areas for all residents to enjoy. 

Officials encourage residents to find new and innovative ways to celebrate that are more environmentally conscious and practice smart habits for protecting the coastline and environment around them.