Issue - meetings

Cabinet Member: Resources and Deputy Leader

Forward Plan Ref: 2026/120

Non-key decision

Contact: Lauren Bond, Senior Policy Officer

Laurn.bond@oxfordshire.gov.uk

Report by Director of Public Affairs, Policy and Partnerships (CAB13)

This document sets out the policy for flying flags on the buildings and land owned or managed by Oxfordshire County Council. The policy aims to comply with the planning regulations, respect the national and local significance of certain dates and events, and accommodate the requests of organisations that wish to fly their own flags. It states the responsibilities and decision-making process for the flying of flags, and which flags are excluded. It does not refer to flags flown by citizens on highways or assets, which are treated separately under enforcement powers.

Cabinet is RECOMMENDED to:

a)    Review and approve the Protocol for Flag Flying (Annex A). The Protocol incorporates recommendations made by the Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Cabinet had before it a report proposing a Protocol for Flag Flying to establish a consistent framework for flag displays on council properties, ensuring compliance with legislation, supporting community cohesion, and managing one-off requests fairly and transparently. 

Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Resources, presented the report.

During discussion, members welcomed the amendments to the policy proposed by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Councillor Fawcett moved and Councillor Bearder seconded the recommendation, and it was approved.

RESOLVED to approve the Protocol for Flag Flying (Annex A to the report). The Protocol incorporates recommendations made by the Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee