Flag size reference — dimension-first guide

This guide centers on flag sizes and how they map to pole height, visibility, and common placement. It includes a size matrix, a pole-height-to-long-edge mapping with an interactive calculator, real-world use case imagery, and clear next-step resources for material and etiquette decisions.

Quick index

Size Matrix — Recommended Pole Heights & Typical Uses

Below are the common sizes we present on this page. Each row lists an approximate metric conversion, recommended pole height range, and typical application. Use these values as starting guidance and verify with actual site conditions.

Size (ft W × H)Approx. Metric (W × H cm)Recommended Pole Height (ft)Typical UseSearch Link
3×5≈ 90 × 150 cm15–20 ftResidential Porch, Residential Flagpole, Outdoor/Indoor Wall DecorFlag for 3×5
4×6≈ 120 × 180 cm20–25 ftStreet/Residential Porch, Residential Flagpole, Outdoor/Indoor Wall DecorFlag for 4×6
5×8≈ 150 × 240 cm25–30 ftStreet/Residential Porch, Residential Flagpole, Outdoor/Indoor Wall DecorFlag for 5×8
6×10≈ 180 × 300 cm30–40 ftStreet Porch, Residential Flagpole, Outdoor/Indoor Wall DecorFlag for 6×10
8×12≈ 240 × 360 cm35–45 ftCommercial Large Flagpole, Outdoor Display, Building Facade HangingFlag for 8×12
10×15≈ 300 × 450 cm40–50 ftCommercial Large Flagpole, Outdoor Display, Building Facade HangingFlag for 10×15
12×18≈ 360 × 540 cm45–55 ftCommercial Large Flagpole, Outdoor Display, Building Facade HangingFlag for 12×18
15×25≈ 450 × 750 cm50–70 ftCommercial Large Flagpole, Outdoor Display, Building Facade HangingFlag for 15×25
20×30≈ 600 × 900 cm55–80 ftCommercial Large Flagpole, Outdoor Display, Building Facade HangingFlag for 20×30
30×50≈ 900 × 1500 cm60+ ftStadium/Venue, Outdoor Display, Building Facade HangingFlag for 30×50
30×60≈ 900 × 1800 cm60+ ft (taller)Stadium/Venue, Outdoor Display, Building Facade HangingFlag for 30×60

Tip: Surroundings and viewing speed (roadside) impact ideal size—use the table as a starting point and adjust for your site.

Pole Height ↔ Flag Size

Pole Height to Flag Size — Mapping & Calculator

This section combines a visual mapping and a small calculator to estimate the flag long edge from a pole height. As a conservative rule of thumb: flag long edge ≈ 1/4 × pole height. In high-visibility situations, you may use 1/3.

External references for etiquette and official information: US Government — Flag information · U.S. Flag Code (Title 4). Internal resources: Flag Etiquette & Display Rules.

Flagpole to flag ratio diagram
Typical poles: 8–80 ft (2.5–24 m). Measure from base to tip.
Enter a pole height and click “Calculate recommendation” to see a target long edge and nearest standard sizes.
Use Cases

Real-world Use Cases by Size

Cards below are organized by size and describe typical applications. They intentionally focus on size and placement — material and finish are covered in linked pages. Replace sample photos with your own scene images for better conversion.

Street / Residential Porch

Typical sizes: 3×5 / 4×6 — choose by porch height and sightlines.

Indoor / Outdoor Wall Décor

Typical sizes: 3×5 → 6×10 — indoors pick for balance; outdoors pick for viewing distance.

Large Freestanding Poles

Typical sizes: 15×25 → 30×50 for institutional frontages—select size by pole height.

Next Steps

Next Steps — Combine Size with Material, Etiquette & Context

After selecting a size, use the resources below to finalize material, mounting, and etiquette decisions. Each card highlights the main benefit and includes a clear next action.

Flag Material & Quality

Compare nylon, polyester and cotton — find the right balance of durability, weather resistance and finish for your site.

Flag Etiquette & Display Rules

Learn official protocols for raising, lowering, ordering of flags and respectful handling.

Choosing the Right Flag

A step-by-step checklist covering size, mount type, fabric, maintenance and ordering options.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Are large state flags available? +
Availability varies by product and inventory. For oversized state flags or custom sizes, consult product pages or contact our custom orders team for lead times and pricing.
What reinforcement is recommended for large flags? +
Reinforced hems, heavy-duty webbing at the header, strong grommets or snap hooks, and wind-aware stitching patterns are commonly recommended. See the material guide for specifics.
How to adjust size for windy locations? +
In windy areas, use a conservative ratio (long edge ≈ 0.22 × pole height), choose reinforced fabrics, or reduce size to lower wind load.

Ready to proceed?

If you know what you need, head to the product catalog. If you still need guidance, the pillar buying guide will help you combine size, material and mounting into a final decision.