How to Fly a Flag

A flag is the symbol of a nation, a philosophy or an organization. Flying a flag involves legal and social considerations. There is a specific protocol and etiquette that's traditional. Fly the flag with dignity and according to time honored rules. Consider the size of the flag, how to clean, repair and whether to illuminate it. Follow these suggestions to fly the flag with respect.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Fly the flag full-staff from the peak of a mast or pole. On special occasions when the fly flag at half-mast, hoist it to the top of the flagpole before lowering it.

2. Check the protocol for flying multiple flags together. Generally, the national flag is set above the others on a single pole, or if multiple masts are used, the national flag is on a taller mast.

3. Display your flag at your apartment or condominium. Contact management for any rules about flags. Some localities have restrictions regarding business flags and consider them overt advertising.

4. Illuminate a flag with a spotlight after dark. Take it down at sunset.

5. Remove a flag during a storm or severe weather, though it can continue to fly in the rain.

6. Contact the local VFW for information about disposing of flags that are no longer fit for display. Burn damaged flags with or without ceremony.

Tips & Warnings

• Fold flags according to standard procedures and store them in non-acidic area. Flags should not touch wood or cardboard. Make sure the flag is completely dry before folding it.
• Fly a flag upside down as a statement of nonviolent protest.
• Small flags should not be hoisted; rather, then should be mounted on a wall or displayed on a short mast in a wall bracket.
• On Memorial Day in the U.S., hoist flags to full-mast at sunrise, then lower to half-mast until noon. Fly at full-mast for the rest of the day.
• A vexillologist is a flag scholar and an authority on flag protocol.

Resources

• U.S. flag etiquette
• Details on the U. S. flag