Sky lanterns are beautiful – but before you release one in the UK, you need to know the rules. Here is an honest overview.
The short answer
- Buying and selling sky lanterns is legal across the UK.
- There is no national ban on releasing them.
- More than 200 local authorities ban releases on land they own, including all 22 councils in Wales and most county councils in England. Many venues, farms and landowners also refuse them.
Why are sky lanterns restricted?
A sky lantern flies with an open flame and cannot be steered once released. In wind or dry weather it can start fires, and farmers’ organisations and animal charities have long campaigned against releases. That is why councils have banned them on their land, and why a national ban is regularly debated.
How to check before your event
- Ask the landowner or venue for permission.
- Check your local council’s policy on sky lanterns.
- Stay well away from airports and airfields, crops, forests, thatched roofs and livestock.
If a release is allowed: how to do it safely
- Only on a still, dry evening.
- A wide open space, away from trees, buildings and power lines.
- Two people: one holds the lantern open, the other lights the burner. Wait until it pulls upwards, then let go gently.
- Keep a bucket of water nearby.
Would you rather keep your feet on the ground? Floating water lanterns create the same glow on a pool or a lake.
Frequently asked questions
Are sky lanterns illegal in the UK?
No. They are legal to buy and there is no national ban on releasing them, but many councils ban releases on their own land and landowners can refuse them.
Are sky lanterns banned in Wales?
All 22 Welsh local authorities ban sky lantern releases on council-owned land.
Can I release sky lanterns at my wedding?
Only with the venue’s permission and if your council does not ban it. Many wedding venues refuse them, so ask early.
