[balloon-makers] Flying in or around populated areas...

["kevin herschman" <private e-mail address>]

Alright internet friends.

We've had little discussion lately, so I'm gonna spark at least a little with an enquiry about people's experiences and/or recomendations with flying Experimental in or around populated areas.

Any way to do it?  Strictly off limits?  Okay within the waiver of a sanctioned event?  Something you can get away with some places but not others?

Any way to do a re-build on an older STC balloon with lightweight fabric and have it be commercially viable?  I can't find any FAA rules for this...can anyone point me?

I had a great season flying the balloon that I built last winter and am starting to play with thoughts of a bigger balloon.  Trying not to be greedy, but different balloons for different purposes.

Thanks,
Kevin