Effective May 3rd, 2017 Bylaw #2017-030 bans the sale and or use of any form of sky lantern in the Municipality of Hastings Highlands.
Sky Lantern is a small hot air balloon or other device designed to carry an open flame as an airborne light.
Any person who ignites or releases a flying lantern and causes an open fire in the Municipality of Hastings Highlands assumes full responsibility for fire control and shall:
(i) be responsible for any damage to property or injury to persons or animals occasioned by said fire;
(ii) assumes full responsibility for fire control and may be liable for costs incurred by the fire department, including the costs of the personnel and equipment as authorized and set out in the Municipality of Hastings Highlands fees bylaw in effect at the time of the incident and authorized by the Fire Chief or his or her designate.
Any person found selling, igniting or releasing, such devices is guilty of an offence and liable to a fine of not more than $2000.00 exclusive of costs, under the Provincial Offences Act.
The use of sky lanterns have the potential to cause forest fires when released in a rural area. Please protect our natural environment.