Sussex Police has spelt out its position on the trend for flags to be attached to lampposts, buildings and other structures across the area.
The statement from the force follows a public letter to civic leaders from a coalition of community groups at the end of last month.
The letter called on council leaders to tackle the “unauthorised flag displays” linked to “Operation Raise the Colours” and associated harassment in Brighton and Hove.
The groups, known collectively as Our Brighton, sent their email to the Labour leader of Brighton and Hove City Council, Bella Sankey, and the chief executive, Jess Gibbons.
Sussex Police said: “We are aware of the recent increase in the displaying of flags across Sussex and the impact it is having on our communities.
“Recognising there are varied motivations for people’s decisions to display flags, we cannot ignore that their presence is creating different feelings among the public.
“We know from our ongoing community engagement, some people feel intimidated and targeted – not by the flag itself but by the perceived motivation for its display.
“For these reasons, we would like to provide clarity on the police response so the public understand our position.
“Attaching any item, be that a flag or other display, to a lamppost or other street furniture is an offence under the Highways Act.
“Sussex Police will not remove flags from the highway as this is the responsibility of either the local authority or highways agency.
“In circumstances where people are found to be affixing flags to a lamppost or other street furniture, officers will make them aware of the relevant legislation and warn them they may be subject to further enforcement action.
“We will continue to attend any incidents where there is intimidation or threats made towards those employed to remove the flags or where other allegations about criminal activity such as criminal damage are made.
“We are clear that we will not tolerate violent, threatening or intimidatory behaviour and we will respond to and investigate such matters with proportionate action taken where there is a legal basis to do so.
“Sussex Police will respond to any concerns in a fair and balanced way.
“We remain committed to working closely with local councils and political leaders as they seek to build improved community cohesion.”
