The policy approved at a council meeting last week applies to banners on power poles and other poles but there are exemptions for non-political and non-commercial events.

These won't need a DA but will be licenced.

A council report stated that banners must not be used for commercial or political purposes or contain images or text which may be considered offensive or promote illegal or immoral activity.

But the council has created a loophole for event banners to recognise sponsors.

Up to 20 per cent of a banner at the top or bottom is allowed to promote sponsors.

The council will establish places in the city for banners to be erected on power poles.

Banners in these places will not need a development application, but a licence from the council will be required and criteria must be met.

In areas other than the side of roads, a development application will be needed.

The policy does not apply to advertising signs or temporary banners, only to those that remain in place for a long time.

Banners promoting festivals and regional activities are encouraged.