Balloon and sky lantern releases

We do not allow balloons or sky lanterns to be released on land or buildings we own. We also do not allow them at events we support, even when the event is held on private land.

This is because releasing balloons or lanterns can harm wildlife, farm animals and people, and can cause fires and damage to property.

Environmental and safety risks of balloon and lantern releases

When balloons and lanterns are released, they do not disappear. They fall back to the ground or into rivers and the sea.

This can cause serious problems, including:

• animals choking on balloon pieces, ribbons or frames
• animals becoming trapped or injured
• fires started by sky lantern flames
• damage to crops, buildings and hay or straw stores
• extra call‑outs for the fire service

Even balloons described as biodegradable can take a long time to break down and can still cause harm while they do.

What this means for events

If you are planning an event on our land, or an event we support in any way, you must not release:

• helium balloons of any kind
• sky or Chinese lanterns, even a single one

This applies to public events, celebrations and memorials.

If your event needs a licence from us, this rule will be included in your licence conditions.

What about silly string

We discourage the use of silly string on our land and at supported events. It breaks down into small plastic pieces that can harm the environment and become litter.

What you can do instead

You can still mark special occasions in safer ways, such as:

• planting a tree or flowers
• holding a minute of reflection
• using bubbles, flags or reusable decorations