Flying lanterns are now banned in the township.
Mapleton council passed a bylaw implementing the ban on May 23, after receiving a report recommending the move from Fire Chief Rick Richardson.
Flying lanterns are small hot air balloons made of paper, with an opening at the bottom where a small flame is suspended.
“They are also known as a ‘sky lantern’. When released, the hot air produced by the fuel source can lift the lantern to extreme heights and allows it to drift for long distances until the fuel is depleted,” the report states.
The lanterns, often released in large numbers to generate an impressive visual effect, “can land on trees, building rooftops, or other combustible properties, while still ignited, and potentially cause a fire,” the report adds.
Councillor Marlene Ottens asked if the proposal was sparked by a specific incident or part of a general province-wide movement to ban the incendiary party favours.
“The answer is yes and yes,” replied Richardson, noting concerns were first raised several years ago and “there have been some fires when people let them go at weddings and parties” at some locations in Ontario.
Richardson said there have been some cases of the lanterns being released at Conestogo Lake.
“It has come to our attention that down by the lake there are some people doing these lanterns fairly often and someone brought a concern to me,” he said.
Mayor Neil Driscoll wondered if neighbouring Minto and Wellington North were considering a ban. He noted it would seem pointless to ban in Mapleton residents from using the lanterns when they could drift into the township across municipal borders.
“They were looking at it,” said Richardson.
A resolution to implement the ban was passed without opposition.
