In June 2024, the Las Vegas City Council passed an ordinance that prohibits the intentional outdoor release of balloons inflated with a gas lighter than air within the city limits.
Proposed by Ward 6 Councilwoman Nancy Brune, the ordinance aims to alleviate the substantial hazard to public safety and wildlife caused by the release of helium-filled balloons, especially foil (or Mylar) balloons. These balloons, known for their durability and resistance to decomposition, are a persistent threat.
The entanglement of foil balloons has resulted in many power outages in the valley over the past four years alone. These power outages pose significant harm by disrupting communications, closing businesses and risking the health of many residents who rely on electricity for medical needs.
Additionally, balloons also litter public lands. Wildlife find the remnants and often mistake them for food, posing a threat to their health -- and entire ecosystem.
The decision of the city of Las Vegas to enact this measure follows bipartisan efforts by the states of Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii and dozens of other cities to adopt similar measures.
Exceptions to the ordinance include:
- A balloon released for scientific or meteorological purposes, on behalf of a governmental agency or pursuant to a governmental contract;
- A hot air balloon that is recovered after launching;
- A balloon which is affixed an object of sufficient weight to counter the lift capability of the balloon;
- A balloon that is released and remains indoors; and
- Any release of balloons as part of an event held on Sept. 11 to honor first responders lost in the line of duty Sept. 11, 2001.
Violations of this updated ordinance will be considered civil infractions. The first violation will be addressed with a warning without penalty. A second offense will result in a $250 penalty. For any subsequent violation within in a 12-month period, a $500 penalty will be issued.
In 2023, the Nevada State Legislature passed a bill to place limits on the sale of Mylar balloons by 2027.