Mandan Approves Floating Lantern Ban

MANDAN, N.D. (AP) — City commissioners have approved a ban in Mandan on floating lanterns sold at fireworks stands.

The Mandan City Commission voted unanimously Tuesday in a favor of the ordinance that makes the possession or use of floating lanterns, incendiary balloons, sky lanterns and celebration lanterns an offense punishable with a $75 fine.

The Bismarck Tribune reports that the proposal was prompted by concerns over the possibility of lanterns igniting a structure at the Tesoro Mandan Refinery.

The Morton County Commission also is considering a ban on floating lanterns.