Do I need planning permission to install a flagpole
This question always raises a number of answers, the following is intended as a guidance only. If you intend to fly the Union flag or national flag of any country then you do not need planning permission to install a flagpole. Flags used for advertising and promotional purposes are controlled under Advertisement Regulations and would normally require consent from your local council. Flagpoles installed on listed buildings would require listed building consent.
No more than one flagpole would normally be permitted on buildings, listed buildings or buildings within conservation areas. An exception can sometimes be made for major public buildings or for buildings such as chain stores or hotels. Local councils policies on flagpoles can differ from each other so it is always advised to seek guidance from your local council before any plans are made.
Generally planning permission will be required if you intend to fly flags used for advertising. Portable flagpoles are an alternative solution as they do not require planning permission. A preferred option for new and used car dealerships.
A local building site which is building 22 houses & 8 flats recently put up 7 flags advertising the company. They were all above 4.6 mtrs. As they had not asked for permission, they were made to take them down. They have now asked for a retrospective application. In your opinion will they get permission. The regs seem to say that 2 flags for that number of properties would be allowed. The site already has a large amount of advertising material along its boundary & on high hoardings.