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Currituck adopts ordinance banning intentional mass helium balloon releases; one commissioner votes no
Summary
After public comment from a local organizer, the board approved an ordinance that prohibits intentional mass releases of helium balloons, with exceptions and a statutory $50 maximum fine; one commissioner voted against the ordinance.
Currituck County commissioners voted Monday to adopt an ordinance banning intentional mass releases of helium balloons, a measure presented to the board by local organizer Debbie Swick.
Swick, who identified herself as the founder of Band Balloon Releases, NC and a Southern Shores resident, urged the county to prohibit intentional releases that she said harm wildlife and contribute to microplastic pollution. “I’m asking for you and your support to ban the intentional release of helium balloons, to put an end to the actual release, the intentional gathering and letting go of hundreds of balloons sometimes that cause harm and danger to our wildlife and to our beautiful planet,” she told the board.
The ordinance as adopted narrows the prohibition to “intentional release” and “mass release,” language the board added during drafting so that accidental single-balloon releases would not be penalized. The county attorney read exceptions included in the ordinance: releases made pursuant to governmental contracts for scientific or meteorological purposes, hot-air balloons recovered after landing, and balloons released inside a building or structure that do not reach the open air.
Commissioners also acknowledged a state statute that caps local fines: the board noted that under Senate Bill 300 the maximum fine is $50 per violation.
The ordinance passed with one commissioner voting nay; the motion carried. The board thanked Swick for her persistence and requested that the county circulate the final ordinance language and exceptions to the public.
Ending: County staff said they will provide the finalized ordinance text and compliance guidance to the public and clarify enforcement procedures.
