Virginia § 29.1-556.1 - Release of certain balloons prohibited; civil penalty; community service
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 29.1-556.1 — Release of certain balloons prohibited; civil penalty; community service, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 29.1-556.1. Release of certain balloons prohibited; civil penalty; community service
A. It is unlawful for any individual 16 years of age or older or other person to intentionally release, discard, or cause to be released or discarded outdoors any balloon made of a nonbiodegradable or nonphotodegradable material or any material that requires more than five minutes' contact with air or water to degrade. Any person convicted of a violation of this section is liable for a civil penalty of $25 per balloon released or discarded, which shall be paid into the Game Protection Fund established pursuant to § 29.1-101. If an individual under the age of 16 releases a balloon by arrangement with or at the instruction of an adult, the adult shall be liable for the civil penalty assessed.
B. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any (i) balloon released (a) by or on behalf of any agency of the Commonwealth or the United States or (b) pursuant to a contract with the Commonwealth, the United States, or any other state, territory, or government for scientific or meteorological purposes or (ii) hot air balloon that is recovered after launch.
1991, c. 607; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, c. 420.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 29.1-556.1
What does Code of Virginia § 29.1-556.1 cover?
Section 29.1-556.1 ("Release of certain balloons prohibited; civil penalty; community service") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 29.1-556.1?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 29.1-556.1" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 29.1-556.1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.