The Importance of the U.S. Flag Code
The American flag is a powerful symbol of national pride, freedom, and shared values. To honor this legacy, the United States Flag Code was established by Congress to provide clear guidelines for respectful display, handling, and use of the flag in all settings and circumstances. While the Flag Code is not enforced by penalties and relies on voluntary observance, following its principles demonstrates deep respect for the country and the ideals it represents.
"The Flag Code inspires unity and respect across our communities."
Understanding and practicing the Flag Code brings unity to communities, businesses, and individuals, ensuring that our flag is always presented in a manner befitting its significance. By following these standards, each display becomes part of a valued tradition—one that honors generations past and sets an example for future Americans.
How to Properly Display the American Flag
- The flag should be raised briskly and lowered ceremoniously, never touching the ground at any time.
- Display the flag from sunrise to sunset. If flown overnight, always provide suitable illumination such as outdoor lighting or solar spotlights.
- On buildings, the flag should hang with the union (blue field and stars) at the peak when on a pole, or uppermost to the observer's left when displayed flat.
- In a group of flags, the U.S. flag should be in the position of honor: highest, or at the center and front.
- Never display the flag in a way that could allow it to touch anything below—especially the ground, water, or any objects.
Handling, Folding, and Care
- Never let the flag touch the ground, water, or any object beneath it. When raising or lowering, use care and ceremony.
- Do not drape the flag over vehicles, merchandise, or use as clothing or bedding. The flag is a symbol, not a decoration or fashion item.
- When the flag is to be stored, it should be neatly and respectfully folded into the traditional triangle. This fold leaves only the blue field and stars visible, recalling the hats of Colonial soldiers and keeping the flag secure.
- To fold the flag: With another person, hold the flag waist-high and horizontally. Fold lengthwise twice, then make a series of triangular folds from the striped end towards the union, tucking in the remaining fabric at the end.
- Retire worn or damaged flags by burning in a dignified manner. Many veterans’ groups and local organizations offer ceremonial retirement services.
Indoor Display and Nighttime Illumination
- For indoor displays, hang the flag so the union (blue field and stars) is always at the top left to people entering the room or viewing the flag.
- Mount the flag above and behind a speaker’s platform, ensuring the union is on the flag’s right (audience’s left).
- When displayed in a vertical position, the union appears at the top, to the observer’s left.
- Displaying the flag at night requires proper lighting to maintain its dignity and visibility. The flag should be illuminated so it is clearly visible to all who see it.
- Illuminate nighttime displays with focused upward or downward spotlights. Solar lighting is acceptable for outdoor flagpoles to maintain visibility.
- Flags not adequately lit overnight should be lowered and stored until sunrise.
Displaying Multiple Flags
- The American flag should be placed in the position of honor—always highest or to the observer’s left on the same level.
- No other flag may be flown above or, if on the same pole, directly below the U.S. flag.
- When flags of states, cities, or organizations are flown on adjacent staffs, the U.S. flag should be at the center and highest point.
- When displaying flags from multiple nations, each flag must be on a separate pole, at equal height, with the U.S. flag to the observer's left.
- In processions, the U.S. flag should always be at the front and center.
Retirement and Replacement of the Flag
- Flags that are no longer serviceable should be retired “in a manner befitting its dignity,” typically by burning in a respectful ceremony.
- Many veterans’ groups, American Legion posts, and scout organizations conduct ceremonial flag retirements—consider contacting these groups for guidance or service.
- Do not throw away, discard, or use worn flags for any other purpose; special retirement prevents disrespect to the symbol.
- Replace the flag promptly when it becomes tattered, faded, or torn, ensuring a fresh symbol of pride at all times.
Additional Resources
- Displaying the US Flag: Rules You Need to Know
- How To Properly Fold the American Flag
- Things To Know About Flying Two Flags at Once
- Official U.S. Government Guide: The U.S. Flag Code
- For ceremonial retirement, contact your local American Legion, VFW, or Scouts USA.
- For more guides and videos, visit the Liberty Flagpoles Resource Center.
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