Motorists could be fined £1,000 and breach Highway Code by flying England flags for St George's Day

Felix Reeves
Thu, 23 Apr 2026 08:46:25 +0000

Drivers are being warned that they could face fines for flying the English flag today as millions celebrate St George's Day.

People around England will be commemorating St George's Day today (Thursday, April 23) with towns and cities hosting events to celebrate English culture.

However, millions are being warned that they could face fines for flying the St George's Cross in celebration.

Experts have warned that jubilant celebrations could pose a danger to other people and risk them falling foul of the rules.

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Graham Conway, from Select Car Leasing, suggested that flags that are particularly large and obscure a driver's vision, as well as the view for other road users.

This would breach Article 30 of The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, which requires motorists to have a full view of the road and traffic ahead.

Government guidance highlights that items placed in or stuck to the windscreens, including stickers, pennants and decorations, could breach the rules.

It outlines that vehicles failing to comply with these rules could be "construed to be in contravention of the legislation".

Similarly, Article 53 states that no "mascot, emblem or other ornamental object shall be carried by a motor vehicle" in a position that could strike any person.

Mr Conway claimed that breaking these rules could lead to drivers of cars or small vans being slapped with a "£1,000 fine".

He added: "It's important to make sure the driver's vision is never impaired by anything you attach to your vehicle.

"Not only could it risk causing an accident, but it could also hit you in the pocket.

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"If you're planning on flying a flag or attaching a mascot to your motor, make sure it can’t pose a risk to you or anyone else."

Rule 89 of the Highway Code states that drivers "must ensure your vehicle and trailer comply with the full requirements of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations and Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations".

A Government spokesperson said: "There is no specific law against flying a flag from your vehicle.

"We would simply encourage motorists to use their common sense to ensure their vision of the road isn't impaired, and that it doesn't jeopardise the safety of other road users.

"We shouldn't hide our national flags which are a source of pride and identity."

Writing on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter, Sir Keir Starmer wished people a happy St George's Day.

He added: "Today, we fly our flag proudly and we're reminded of the values it represents - service, generosity, and respect.

"When we stand together, united in our communities, we are stronger than any attempt to divide us."