Many government buildings—including public institutions, schools, and temporary polling places—display state and national flags every day. These flags represent the people, their cultures, and their pride within their communities.
If you’re responsible for displaying flags on a government building, it’s important to follow the proper guidelines to show respect for our nation’s founding leaders and for those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
Guidelines To Consider
Properly displaying flags on government buildings can be complex. You must consider the location, size, and maintenance of each flag to ensure compliance with flag protocol and respectful presentation.
The United States Flag Code establishes guidelines for flying flags on federal buildings. These standards help ensure that flags are treated with dignity and preserved for continued use. Below are the main points to keep in mind.
Displaying the United States Flag
When flying multiple flags on poles of equal height, the United States flag must always be placed in the position of honor—on the pole viewed first. If your poles vary in height, the American flag should always be flown from the tallest pole. The Texas state flag is the only exception; it may be flown at the same height as the U.S. flag.
If you’re displaying flags indoors on a speaker’s platform, place the U.S. flag at the farthest right (from the speaker’s perspective) and highest above any other flags. This signifies its position of respect and prominence.
When flying multiple flags, the proper order from the observer’s left is: the United States flag, then the flags of other nations (at equal height), followed by state and local flags (at lower heights). At night or during inclement weather, ensure that the flags are properly illuminated. On certain occasions—such as national mourning, the passing of a government official, or Memorial Day—flags should be flown at half-staff.
Vertically or Horizontally?
When displaying the U.S. flag on a wall or window, it may be hung either vertically or horizontally. Regardless of orientation, the stars (the Union) must always appear in the upper left corner from the observer’s point of view.
Displaying a State Flag
Many government buildings also fly their respective state flags. The same care, maintenance, and storage principles apply. When flown together, raise the American flag first and lower it last. State flags are often slightly smaller than the U.S. flag—a symbolic gesture of respect—but they may also be the same size, never larger.
Etiquette for Storing and Retiring Flags
Flags are symbols of the people they represent, and handling them with respect is essential. Store flags neatly and never place objects on top of them. The American flag must be folded in its proper triangular form, and it should never touch the ground during handling or storage.
Inspect your flags regularly for wear or damage. When a flag is no longer suitable for display, it should be retired honorably. Many organizations, such as veterans’ groups, hold ceremonial flag retirements—often around patriotic holidays—where damaged flags are respectfully burned or recycled. If needed, you can also perform a retirement yourself following proper procedures.
In some cases, minor damage can be repaired. Work only with reputable vendors to ensure the integrity of the flag. If the damage is extensive or colors have faded, replacing the flag entirely is the best way to maintain proper display standards.
Choosing the Right Flag
As a general rule, your flag should measure one-quarter to one-third the height of the flagpole. For example, a 20-foot flagpole pairs well with a 3x5-foot flag. For indoor displays, select a flag that fits the space without touching the ground or appearing oversized.
Flags are available in several materials, including cotton, nylon, and polyester. While inexpensive options may be tempting, it’s best to choose a high-quality American state flag that maintains accurate colors and durability. For outdoor use, a sewn polyester flag offers excellent longevity and weather resistance, often lasting up to six months.
Indoor flags typically last much longer and require minimal upkeep. Smaller desk or hallway flags are also great options for interior displays in government buildings.
Fly Your Flags
Take all these guidelines into account when displaying state or national flags on a government building. While each of the 50 state flags is unique, they all share one purpose: to represent their people with honor. Raise your flags high and display them with pride each day.
