Sky lanterns, while beautiful, are considered fire hazards and are therefore illegal in several states across the United States. Some of these states include California, Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, and Virginia. Each state has specific regulations and laws regarding the use of sky lanterns, and these rules are primarily due to the potential risks they pose to public safety and property. The lanterns can cause unintended fires when they land, and they can also pose a threat to wildlife. Therefore, it's essential to check with local authorities or fire departments before releasing sky lanterns. Always remember, safety first!