How to Dispose of a Flag Correctly

Old flags need to be disposed of respectfully.

Flags spend a lot of time in the wind and rain, so it is only a matter of time before they become tattered and worn out. It is not easy to dispose of the symbol of your country; a flag cannot simply be thrown away in the garbage. Laws protect the flag from disrespectful disposal, and it is important to follow these laws when taking care of Old Glory for the last time. Thankfully, there are several options for safe and respectful flag disposal.

Instructions

1. Determine that the flag is no longer serviceable. According to the United States Flag Code, "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." Conducting a private burning ceremony is one way to dispose of the flag when it is no longer fit for display.

2. Contact the local American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Boy Scouts of America or Girls Scouts of America. These organizations have burning ceremonies for flags throughout the year, but especially on Flag Day, June 14th. They will be able to take the flag and dispose of it properly.

3. Contact American Flag Recycling if the flag in question is made of nylon or some other synthetic material. Burning this material may release toxic chemicals, so it is best to have this type of flag recycled instead.

4. Contact Flag Keepers. This organization will take the flag and dispose of it properly for a small fee if none of the above options are available.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't burn a nylon flag without proper ventilation.

References

• USA Flag Site: Proper Disposal of the American Flag
• The American Legion Flag Advocacy: How Are Unserviceable Flags Destroyed?
• American Flag Recycling
• Flag Keepers: Proper Flag Disposal, Recycling and Tattered Flag Reporting