It is mandatory under the 1991 General Bye-laws for charities to gain written consent from and give notice to the local authority prior to collecting money from the public. 

The Council permits a maximum of 28 collections each year in the town centre, although additional collections can be authorised should charitable bodies wish to hold fundraising events elsewhere in the Borough.

In addition to these 28 collections the Council has approved the Manx Rapid Response Coalition to hold emergency two-day street collections in Douglas on the first Friday and Saturday following any future disaster appeal. This permission might result in a conflict of dates for a previously approved collection and, in this instance, an alternative date can be applied for by the affected charity.

Applications are invited from 1st September for collections in the following year and allocated on a first-come first-served basis.

The deadline for applications is November 12th annually.

Frequently Asked Questions 

I have not pre-booked a flag day. Can I still arrange a collection event?

There may still be an opportunity to submit an application throughout the year. Please call the town centre manager to check availability.

Can the charitable organisation undertake any other activities alongside their collection?

Organisations are encouraged to make the most of their allocated collection day by coordinating other activities to maximise fundraising. To discuss any ideas you may have please contact the town centre manager.