Balloons are some of the most common types of litter found during community clean-ups. Additionally, they harm wildlife and the environment. Here are a few facts about balloon and plastic pollution: 

• Deflated balloons can be mistaken for food, leading to wildlife injury or death. Not to mention mylar is made up of plastic with metallic coating that does not break down in the environment and can become a persistent problem.
• Colorful balloons confuse wildlife. Deflated balloons can be mistaken for food, leading to wildlife injury or death.
• Balloons can be dangerous. In 2015, a mylar balloon struck a power line and sparked a blaze that burned 75 acres in Butte County, California. Over the past five years, SDG&E has attributed over 500 regional power outages to mylar balloons.  

There are simple actions you can take to support the city and comply with the proposed ordinance. 

• Consider alternate party decorations. Decorate your party with flowers or reusable lights in lieu of balloons.
• Deflate balloons and reuse your mylar. If you still purchase balloons, always secure them with a weight, and deflate and dispose of them properly in your curbside trash cart. Save money and reuse the mylar balloons. 

City ordinance