Sky lanterns FAQs

The most important question is: 

Are sky lanterns legal?

That depends on your state and your locality. It is important to abide by the laws of your state. In addition to state laws, you must also obey your locality laws and policies. Please check with them before purchasing sky lanterns.

1. Is launch permission required?

In most cases, no, but it is advisable to contact your local authorities including the coast guard, if applicable, for advice on possible regulations.

Do not use near main roads or in area where Sky Lanterns could be misinterpreted as a distress signal.

Important: The use of Sky Lanterns abroad must be approved by the local authorities of the country in question. The user in the respective country is responsible for following the set safety guidelines and regulations.

2. What is the most appropriate launch site for the Sky Lanterns?

We recommend using Sky Lanterns in a clear open space free from obstructions, i.e. power cables, trees or buildings. For maximum visibility, a clear sky is preferable. Keep away from sites with flammable gases and liquids.

3. What are the suitable weather conditions for launching Sky Lanterns?

Best Conditions, for launching: Still weather conditions with little wind.  A maximum wind force of 2 on the Beaufort scale (4 - 7 miles per hour) must not be exceeded at the time of launching the lanterns, due to the risk of the lantern flying off course.

We do not recommend using Sky Lanterns when it is raining. Light precipitation/drizzling may still allow Sky Lanterns to fly, but we strongly discourage using them in heavy downpours.

4. What can be used to write good luck wishes upon the Sky Lanterns?

For best results, we recommend using a large felt-tip pen on a flat, even surface, free from dirt and moisture.  This is to ensure that the paper does not tear when written upon. To ensure best results minimal pressure should be applied.

5. How high do the Sky Lanterns fly, and for how long?

One Sky Lantern burns and flies for approximately 5 - 10 minutes, in optimal weather conditions, the Sky Lanterns can reach heights between 200m and 500m. Factors affecting Sky Lanterns flight include: Size of lantern, Size of heat source (fuel cell), Ambient temperature at launch site (Ground Degrees Celsius/Fahrenheit), Temperature fluctuations at various heights above launch site (Air Temperature), Location of Launch site (valley, mountain, launch site shaded by wind etc), Wind speed and direction at launch site (Ground), Wind speed and direction above launch site (In Air).

6. What happens once the fuel source has been exhausted?

Once the Fuel Cell has expired, there is no flame or fuel material left, so the lanterns float gently back to the Earth. Falling Lanterns with extinguished fuel cell pose no fire risk.

The Sky lantern and fuel cell may in no way be modified or altered from its original state.

Sky Lanterns are made from biodegradable materials; Rice or Mulberry paper, on a Bamboo frame, which means they decompose in the shortest of times.

Please adhere to the safety guidelines and instructions laid out before you at all times.

**Remember, check to make sure if sky lanterns are legal in your state or locality.