Council position on flags and other unauthorised attachments
Birmingham City Council is asking people not to attach flags or other unauthorised items to street furniture or face possible legal action.
Attaching items to lamp columns, railings or other street furniture without permission is not allowed and will be removed.
The council has already removed flags from a number of areas of the city and will continue to do so. Where appropriate we will take enforcement action against perpetrators in line with our legal powers, such as where attachments cause obstruction, present a safety hazard or are repeatedly placed in the same locations.
Unfortunately, in some areas flags have been replaced as soon as they have been removed and residents who object to flags being placed in their neighbourhoods have reported abuse and intimidation.
This is not acceptable and the council has a responsibility to act where behaviour undermines community cohesion and the safe and inclusive use of public spaces. We are working with the police, will continue to gather evidence of potential unlawful behaviour, and will take action against where appropriate.
However, the council is engaging with communities to explore certain locations where an authorised display can be put in place with the support from the council.
We ask that our staff and contactors carrying out their work are treated with consideration and respect. Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of residents, staff, contractors, and the wider community.
We are aware that recent flag‑related activity has contributed to increased tensions in some areas, and we encourage all residents to act responsibly and respectfully to help maintain calm, reduce the risk of intimidation and support community cohesion during this period.
Birmingham is a proud and welcoming city, and we continue to recognise the importance of national flags to many residents. The Union flag flies outside the Council House every day, reflecting both national pride and the diverse communities that make this city what it is.
Where it is appropriate the council will also work with communities and consider how a display could be supported and authorised.
The council’s approach is consistent with its policy of removing unauthorised items which happens throughout the year, which includes flags, bunting, posters and advertising materials. We ask residents, visitors and community groups to support this approach by ensuring any displays are placed only on private property where permission exists, and not on the public highway.
