It has always been permissible to fly a national flag, but any others require planning permission from the local authority. A decision which has angered proud owners of the Devon flag for some time now. But there's good news on the horizon.

The Minister for Housing, Keith Hill, has now said local authorities can officially "turn a blind eye" to the practice of flying the county emblem from flag poles.

The situation was highlighted in April 2004 when Rodney Lock of Ottery St Mary in East Devon was threatened with legal action for flying a Devon flag in his back garden.

He faced a £60 charge to get planning permission from East Devon District Council. The council said it had received a complaint and that it had no choice but to investigate the matter.

The Devon Air Ambulance proudly sports the county flag

It sparked debate throughout the region, especially in Cornwall where the black and white flag of St Piran can be seen flying with pride all over the county.

Here in Devon, the demand for the county flag, which was designed and produced by users of this website, was growing enormously and owners couldn't understand why there was such a fuss.

Confusion continued because national flags are exempt from planning permission under current legislation.

The MP for North Cornwall, Paul Tyler, who sought clarification from the government, says the decision represents a victory for the people of Devon and Cornwall and their flags.

But Keith Hill has confirmed that it is up to the local district or borough council whether they allow the county flags to be flown or take enforcement action.