New York Balloon

New York asks more of a balloon than most states, and it is worth knowing which parts before you order.

Wind, and where it comes from

Coastal Long Island and the harbour approaches get sustained wind that inland sites do not. Upstate gets its own, off the lakes.

The 25 mph rule is the same everywhere; New York simply hits it more often. Buy for reliable flying rather than maximum size, and anchor for the gust rather than the average.

Site space is the real constraint downstate

In much of the metro area the limiting factor is not the balloon, it is where you can put it. You need a clear anchor point and clear sky above, and neither is guaranteed on a tight urban lot.

Look up before you look at sizes. Power lines, fire escapes, neighbouring buildings and street trees all rule out positions.

Winter is a short-day problem

Dark by half four in December, which is exactly when your customers are driving. An unlit balloon at 120 feet is simply not there.

The internal LED kit is $309 and doubles the useful hours through the winter. In a northern state it is the add-on that actually pays.

Ask the municipality

Temporary signage rules are local and they vary between neighbouring towns, boroughs and villages. Some are relaxed, some are not.

One call to the local building or planning department, before ordering. We cannot answer it for you, and neither can anyone else selling you a balloon.

More at arizonaballoon.com.