Fly posting is the fixing of posters, or anything similar, to any surfaces which you do not have permission and planning consent (where necessary). It typically involves advertising anything from 'cash for cars' to music events.
Fly posting is an offence under Section 224(3) of the Town and Country Planning Act (TCPA) 1990 and the Highways Act 1980.
How to report fly posting
You can report fly posting using our online form.
Fines and penalty notices
Advertisers can be fined up to £2,500 on conviction for this offence under the TCPA 1990, and in the case of a continuing offence, £100 per day after a conviction.
The individual who physically affixes the poster (rather than the advertised business) may be issued with an Fixed Penalty Notice of £75.
Responsibility for removing fly posting
The council takes down fly posting from the highway, verge and street furniture. We also include this in our regular cleaning schedule.
Businesses and private organisations are responsible for removing fly posters from their own land and structures. This includes areas like bus shelters and utility boxes.
Excess posters or boards
Sometimes we see sudden increases in posters or estate agent boards, for example while a fun fair is taking place. In these cases:
- our contractors may only remove items causing a safety issue, such as blocking pavements, signs or visibility
- non‑urgent removals may take longer, as routine scheduled cleaning must remain the priority
If there is a large or ongoing problem, our enforcement officers will contact the company or agent responsible to get the issue resolved.
Estate agent boards
Estate agent boards must not be placed on the highway or on council land without permission. Boards put up in the wrong place may be removed and enforcement action may be taken against the agent.