Respecting the national symbol
This guide captures the most commonly needed rules for displaying, handling, and retiring the U.S. flag, based on the U.S. Flag Code and other authoritative sources. It is not legal advice, but practical guidance.
Key references: U.S. Flag Code, Title 4, Chapter 1 · USA.gov — Flag Display & Half‐staff info · VA Guidelines for Display of the Flag (PDF)
Core Rules
General Display Rules
- The flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset. If displayed at night, it must be properly illuminated. (4 U.S. Code § 6(a))
- The flag should never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, floor, water, or merchandise. (4 U.S. Code § 8(b))
- When displayed with other flags, the U.S. flag should be at the highest point and at the center of the group. (4 U.S. Code § 7(e))
- The flag should be raised briskly and lowered ceremoniously. (VA Display Guidelines, p.1)
Correct Placement
Orientation & Placement Rules
- When the flag is displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union (star field) should be uppermost and to the flag’s own right (observer’s left). (4 U.S. Code § 7(i))
- When displayed with crossed staffs, the U.S. flag should be on the right (its own right) and its staff should be in front. (4 U.S. Code § 7(d))
- When the U.S. flag is displayed over a street, suspended vertically, the union should face north in an east–west street or face east in a north–south street. (VA Display Guidelines, PDF)
Special Occasions
Half-Staff & Observances
- Half-staff is typically ordered by the President or state governor for mourning, death of officials, or national tragedies. (USA.gov — Half-Staff Notices)
- On Memorial Day, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff. (4 U.S. Code § 7(m))
- During public ceremonies (funerals, memorials), ensure the flag is respectfully displayed, properly handled, folded, and not draped over a vehicle unless appropriately covered. (4 U.S. Code § 7(l))
Prohibited & Retirement
Prohibited Uses & Flag Retirement
- The flag should not be used as clothing, bedding, or drapery. (4 U.S. Code § 8(d))
- The flag should not be used for advertising purposes or printed with slogans or decorations. (4 U.S. Code § 8(i))
- When a flag is worn, tattered, faded, or damaged, it should be retired in a dignified way. Many veterans’ organizations collect flags for proper disposal. (American Legion FAQ — Flag Disposal)
Next Steps
Next Steps — Combine Etiquette with Size, Material & Context
After mounting, and etiquette decisions, use the resources below to finalize material and selecting a size. Each card highlights the main benefit and includes a clear next action.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the U.S. flag be flown at night? +
Yes — if properly illuminated. By default, display is from sunrise to sunset. (4 U.S. Code § 6(a))
When should the flag be flown at half-staff? +
By Presidential or gubernatorial order for mourning, death of certain officials, Memorial Day until noon, or other designated observances. (USA.gov — Half-Staff Notices)
How should one retire a worn or damaged flag? +
Retire it in a dignified manner, preferably by burning or via a veterans’ organization program. (American Legion FAQ)
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.