The guidance cited in the report covers national flags displayed outside homes, not only England flags. The main restrictions reportedly include:
The report says councils can first request that a non-compliant flag is removed. If that request is ignored, the initial penalty could reportedly start at £100, rising to £2,500 for repeat breaches.
The warning arrives as enthusiasm builds around England, who reportedly reached the semifinal after beating Norway on Saturday. With Argentina standing between the team and a place in the final, supporters are expected to turn homes and streets into temporary displays of national pride.
The potential issue is not the symbolism of the flag but the way it is installed. A large banner fixed to a building, combined with advertising or blocked signage, could attract greater scrutiny than a standard flag on a compliant mast.
The reported rules also mean the advice extends beyond England fans. Anyone displaying a national flag during the World Cup may need to check the same requirements before putting it on a roof, façade or external pole.
Supporters should confirm the relevant local guidance before installing a display, particularly if using a large flag or a roof-mounted structure. Once the flags are up, the focus will shift to England vs Argentina and whether the semifinal produces the next defining chapter of the tournament.