People urged to only fly World Cup flags at home

Councils around the West Country have asked residents to refrain from hanging flags on public property.

The messages from Bristol City Council (BCC), South Gloucestershire Council and Wiltshire Council come ahead of the Fifa World Cup 2026, which is being held across USA, Mexico and Canada.

The authorities previously removed unauthorised flags and reminded residents to only display them on their own private property.

BCC leader Tony Dyer said: "That visible show of support, a sea of colour across our neighbourhoods, is part of what makes events like the World Cup so special."

Torrington Avenue in the Knowle West area of Bristol was recognised as the most heavily decorated street during the UEFA European Football Championship in 2016 after residents hung England flags from houses, telephone masts and lampposts.

Similar moves across the country in recent months, that resulted in flags hung on lampposts, painted on roundabouts and added to historical landmarks, sparked debates over immigration and safety.

The Highways Act 1980 states it is an offence to affix items to structures on the highway without the consent of the highway authority without reasonable excuse.

Section 132(2) of the act states the highway authority can remove them.

Dyer asked residents to only display flags, banners or bunting on their own properties.

He said: "What people cannot do is fly flags on lampposts or railings or any public property.

"Please do not attach anything to lampposts - it causes health and safety issues."

The council said it would prioritise the removal of flags in "sensitive locations" and would review the strategy for removing flags on council-owned property.

Residents have also been asked to report any flags or decorations hung on public property.

"By celebrating responsibly and being mindful of others, we can ensure that Bristol remains welcoming, respectful and safe for everyone during the tournament," Dyer added.

South Gloucestershire Council said it welcomed the celebration of events and sports teams, but reminded residents that flags should only be displayed "safely, lawfully and with consideration for others".

A spokesperson for the authority said: "Any flags or items displayed without permission on public land or council property will be removed by the council."

They added the rules were in place to "protect public safety, prevent damage to public assets, ensure the highway remains safe and usable for everyone, and maintain a welcoming and cohesive community feel."

Wiltshire councillor Martin Smith said the authority had a duty to ensure the county's roads were "safe, clear and accessible at all times."

He said: "We are all willing the England team on to end 60 years of hurt and bring the trophy home [after England's 1966 victory].

"However, we would like to remind residents that placing items such as banners, bunting or flags on or near the public highway - including lampposts, road signs and roundabouts - without permission, can pose safety risks to road users and pedestrians. It can also obstruct visibility," he added.

The council said it would remove unauthorised items on highways.

The opening match will be played in Mexico City on 11 June, with the final due in the US state of New Jersey on 19 July.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.