Outdoor display: mounting, timing, and lighting
Select a flag size that fits the pole: a 3-by-5 foot flag for a 15- to 20-foot residential pole, 4-by-6 for a 20- to 25-foot pole, and 5-by-8 or larger for civic installations. American flag display rules recommend a flag-to-pole height ratio near 1:4 for visual balance. Use stainless-steel or brass hardware, two-snap halyard clips, and a weatherproof flagpole sleeve to reduce wear.
Mounting the flag
- Measure the pole and pick a flag with reinforced corners and double-stitched seams. Nylon is ideal for outdoor use because it dries quickly and flies well in light wind; polyester works for high-wind or commercial sites.
- Install a heavy-duty wall bracket or ground sleeve anchored into concrete for freestanding poles. For wall-mounted poles, use two lag bolts at least 3/8 inch thick and make sure the bracket tilts the pole slightly away from the wall to avoid abrasion.
- Thread the halyard through a cleat no lower than shoulder height and secure with a proper knot. Replace frayed halyards immediately to prevent the flag from detaching.
When to fly and lighting requirements
- A flag traditionally flies from sunrise to sunset. If a flag is displayed at night, provide continuous white lighting that keeps the flag visible and dignified. A focused floodlight or LED fixture aimed at the flag is sufficient.
- During severe weather, take down non-weatherproof flags to prevent tearing. Flags made for all-weather display should still be inspected regularly for salt, soot, and stress damage.
Half-staff procedures
- To lower a flag to half-staff, first hoist the flag briskly to the peak for an instant, then slowly lower it to the halfway point. When removing from half-staff, raise it again to the peak before lowering fully.
- Federal proclamations determine national half-staff days. States or local governments may issue additional orders for state observances. Record the date and reason for lowering to half-staff if you maintain flags for a business or organization.
Indoor display and placement
When displaying a flag indoors during events, position the flag so the union (the blue field with stars) is at the flag’s own right, which is the audience’s left. For platform displays:
- Place the American flag to the speaker’s right (audience left) and any state or organizational flags to the speaker’s left.
- On a wall, hang the union at the flag’s own right. If suspended over a stage, the union should be at the observer’s left if viewed from the audience.
- A single flag on a staff should have the staff tilted so the union is nearest the audience or center of the room.
Avoid draping a flag over tables, podiums, or furniture in a way that allows the flag to touch the floor or be used as decoration that alters the flag’s shape.
Order of precedence and combined displays
When displayed with other flags, follow these protocols:
- The U.S. flag takes the position of honor and should be placed to its own right (observer’s left). It should be at the center and highest point when displayed with a group of state or local flags.
- When flown with flags of other nations, each flag should be on separate staffs of the same height. None should be above or to the right of another.
- Military or service flags come after the U.S. flag. The POW/MIA flag may be flown immediately to the right of the U.S. flag if required by policy.
If using a staff with multiple flags, the U.S. flag should be at the top or to the observer’s left-most position. Never place another flag above the American flag.
Care, cleaning, and storage
- Inspect flags weekly for wear, fraying, or fading. Repair minor tears with matched thread and a tidy stitch; replace flags with large holes or unraveling stripes.
- Most modern nylon flags can be hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle in a mesh bag using mild detergent. Air-dry flat or hang indoors. Do not use bleach on colored flags. For large or ceremonial flags, use professional textile cleaners.
- Store flags in a clean, dry place folded properly. For long-term storage, wrap a folded flag in acid-free tissue paper and place it in a breathable container; avoid plastic for long-term storage because it can trap moisture.
Disposal and respectful retirement
- When a flag is no longer fit for display, retire it respectfully. Many community groups, including the American Legion, VFW, and Boy Scouts, conduct flag retirement ceremonies and accept worn flags for proper disposal.
- If retiring at home, the accepted method is a dignified burning in a safe, controlled setting. Ensure compliance with local fire regulations and perform the ceremony privately and respectfully. Alternatively, contact a local veterans group to handle retirement.
Choosing American Flags: materials, construction, and purchases
- Materials: Nylon is lightweight and ideal for residential use. Polyester resists heavy wind faster and lasts longer in exposure. Cotton is traditional and appropriate for indoor displays or historical presentations.
- Construction: Look for double-stitching along stripes, embroidered or sewn stars, and reinforced canvas headers with brass grommets for outdoor durability. Heat-sealed or printed flags are less durable.
- Sizes: Match flag size to pole height and visibility needs. A 3x5 foot flag is standard for porches and small yards; larger properties or institutional sites typically use 4x6, 5x8, or 6x10 flags.
- Hardware: Stainless-steel bearings in the top swivel reduce wear. Invest in a rotator to prevent halyard twisting on sites with variable wind.
When buying American Flags, prioritize procuring flags made in the United States if authenticity and traditional manufacturing are important. For commercial or municipal installations, choose flags with UV-resistant coatings and heavy-duty stitching.
Special situations: parades, vehicles, and temporary events
- Parades: If carried on foot, the flag should be to the marchers’ right. If carried in a procession of multiple flags, the U.S. flag should be centered in front of the line.
- Vehicles: A small flag mounted on a staff attached to a vehicle should be placed on the right front fender or a staff holder on the rear corner. Remove flags from vehicles when entering enclosed spaces.
- Temporary displays: Use quick-release fittings that allow efficient removal for weather or when instructed by officials. Keep spare flags on hand for replacements during multi-day events.
Common mistakes and quick checklist
Mistakes to avoid:
- Flying a worn or unlit flag at night without proper illumination.
- Using decorative or novelty items that alter the flag’s design, such as cutting stripes or adding logos that change the field of stars.
- Letting the flag contact the ground or be used as apparel or drapery.
Quick pre-flight checklist:
- Flag size matches pole height.
- Bracket, halyard, and cleat are secure and corrosion-free.
- Lighting is installed if the flag will fly after sunset.
- Flag material suits local weather and wind conditions.
- Replacement flags and a retirement plan are ready.
Final practical tips
Keep at least one extra American Flag on hand for replacements, and store it folded in a dry, accessible place. Schedule regular inspections into seasonal maintenance tasks. For businesses and public facilities, create a written protocol covering display hours, lighting, half-staff procedures, and who will handle flag care and retirement. High-quality American Flags and proper hardware reduce maintenance and ensure the flag remains a lasting symbol of respect and pride.