Flying a kite could be a "costly" pursuit under the first general ordinance adopted after Indianapolis formally became a town in 1832.

The penalty was $1 to $3 for flying a kite, firing a gun or pistol, or running a horse within the town limits.

Other penalties:
Suffering firewood to remain on Washington Street more than 12 hours, $3.
Failing to remove shavings from the shop where made and burn them once in two days, $1.
Maintaining a stove-pipe within 2 inches of woodwork, $1.
Leaving a cellar door open on a street in the night, $1.
Driving a horse or vehicle on a sidewalk, $1.
Leaving team unhitched and without trace chain unhitched, $3.
Giving a show without a license, $3.
Exhibiting a stallion within 50 yards of Washington Street or a dwelling house, $1.
Selling liquor, less than a quart, without a license, $2.