You can purchase them in stores but it is illegal to use Sky Lanterns in Frederick County. Battalion Chief Kenny Poole with Frederick County Fire and Rescue Services explains how these lanterns are made
“basically they are made up of typically an oiled paper with some type of bamboo frame and they have some type of a fuel cell in them” said Poole.
There has been confusion about whether they can be used legally in Maryland.
“Thats why the state fire marshal’s office that is through COMAR and the COMAR regulation is 29.06.01.08T specifically prohibits the use of sky lanterns throughout the state of Maryland” said Poole.
Some Middletown residents recently complained after finding a smoking sky lantern in their backyard. For more information go to WFMD.com and follow us on Facebook and Twitter at 930 WFMD.