Rules and regulations to consider when installing a flagpole in your garden

Are you familiar with the laws surrounding the appropriate use of flags?

Firstly, in most cases, the flag you’re wanting to fly is probably well within the rules. However, there are certain circumstances where special permission is required. Before you set up a garden flagpole, brush up on your knowledge of the latest rules and regulations. This will ensure you aren’t breaking any laws.

There are some rules that apply to all flags. When you’re flying your flag, make sure you’re following the rules below:

• Ensure the flag stays in a condition that does not impair the overall appearance of the site
• Keep the flag in a safe condition
• You must have the owner of the flag site’s permission
• The flag should not obscure any official road, rail, waterway or aircraft signs
• The flag should be removed carefully where so required by the planning authority

Recent changes in required permissions

Recent changes mean that a wider range of national, sub-national, community and international flags no longer need permission to display. This means that you can fly this type of flag without contacting your local planning authority. That is, provided you’re not displaying any additional subject matter to the design of the flag (with the exception of a black mourning ribbon).

Flags that do not need permission to display include:

• Any country’s national flag, civil ensign or civil air ensign
• Flags of the Commonwealth, European Union, United Nations or other international organisations of which the United Kingdom is a member
• The flag of any island, county, district, borough, burgh, parish, city, town or village within the United Kingdom
• Any historic county flags within the United Kingdom, including Black Country, East Anglia, Wessex, any part of Lincolnshire, any Riding of Yorkshire etc
• The flag of Saint David
• Saint Patrick’s flag
• The flag of administrative areas within any country outside the United Kingdom
• Her Majesty’s forces flags
• The Armed Forces Day flag

No consent required

There are also some flags that do not require any consent provided you’re complying with restrictions:

• A house flag can display the name, emblem, device or trademark of the building occupant. It can also refer to a specific event of limited duration that is taking place in the building from which the flag is flown
• Any sports club, as long as the flag does not include sponsorship logos
• The horizontal rainbow “Pride” flag
• Specific award schemes (Eco-schools, Queens Award for Enterprise and Investors in People).

The biggest change brought about by the new regulations is that you may now have up to two flags within the grounds of a building. Previously the limit was one. Furthermore, there are no restrictions on the size of the flag. That said, the garden flagpole must not be more than 4.6 metres above ground level. Without planning consent, your local council may allow a larger pole, so you should check with them. Also, for more information read our blog on how to install a garden flagpole.

If the flag you’re wanting to display isn’t mentioned above, or if you’re unsure, contact your local planning authority. They can provide detailed advice.

Harrison Flagpoles have been manufacturing high quality flags and flagpoles for over 50 years. If you’ve checked the regulations and are ready to set up your own flag, view the wide variety we offer. You can also talk to our friendly team on 01325 390 195!