Ventura Municipal Code Ch. 8.260 Balloon Releases

“Balloon” means any nonporous bag or sack made from light materials, including, but not limited to, rubber, latex, polychloroprene, nylon fabric, or mylar, that can be inflated or filled with air, gas, or fluid and then sealed at the neck, typically used as a toy or decoration.

“Person” means any individual, group of individuals, trust, firm, joint stock company, corporation, cooperative, partnership, or association.

“Public event” means any event to which the general public is invited or permitted, including, but not limited to, musical concerts or performances, athletic competitions, public fairs, carnivals, flea markets, bazaars and artistic or cultural performances or exhibitions, regardless of any fee, ticket or age requirement. (Ord. No. 2020-007, § 1, 3-2-20; Ord. No. 2020-008, § 1, 3-30-20)

It is unlawful for any person to release any balloon or balloons inflated with a gas that is lighter than air within the jurisdictional limits of the city as part of a public or civic event, promotional activity, product advertisement, or event requiring a permit pursuant to Chapters 18.250 and 20.20. (Ord. No. 2020-007, § 1, 3-2-20; Ord. No. 2020-008, § 1, 3-30-20)

This chapter shall not apply to manned hot air balloons, or to balloons used in governmental or scientific research projects. (Ord. No. 2020-007, § 1, 3-2-20; Ord. No. 2020-008, § 1, 3-30-20)

Each and every balloon released in violation of this chapter shall constitute a separate violation and shall be subject to all remedies and enforcement measures authorized by this code. The city may also pursue any and all remedies and actions available and applicable under state and local laws. (Ord. No. 2020-007, § 1, 3-2-20; Ord. No. 2020-008, § 1, 3-30-20)

A violation of this chapter is a misdemeanor and may be punished as such according to the provisions of Chapter 1.150. (Ord. No. 2020-007, § 1, 3-2-20; Ord. No. 2020-008, § 1, 3-30-20)