This issue is high on the agenda of media and people alike.

Quite clear rules exist about putting up flags. Many government and public services buildings have flag poles for the purpose of erecting flags with the full permission of the law.

In principle every nation has the right to display their national flag on permitted flag poles on government buildings.

Below is the guidance from the Government which includes the latest rules and regulations..

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/flying-flags-a-plain-english-guide/flying-flags-a-plain-english-guide.

You will note that there is information as to flags which do not require consent to be flown. Foreign flags are generally not included and therefore require consent from the local planning authority. Likewise the local planning authority must give permission for flags on public premises, whether it be a building, a standard or indeed a lamppost.

The National Flag Institute publishes extensive details on flags and here is the last of them. Note, the Palestinian Flag is not included.

UK flag protocol

Therefore it is safe to say that flags attached to lamp posts require double permission, to be flown and also to be included for a special local reason.

You may report any flags, which are erected unlawfully on public street furniture for example to the local Council who have a reporting methods, using the Find it Fix it app. See more details here.

Health and Safety concerns

It is truly patriotic to fly your national flag but always consider the health and safety of others, the traffic and police considerations.

• Putting up flags across streets on string is not safe unless it is a licensed street party, which encourages putting up flags across the area of the street party.
• obstructing traffic and pedestrian signs is not safe
• Your landlord may have rules on displaying flags from windows