The United States Flag Code provides guidance on how to properly display and care for the American flag. It outlines etiquette for flying the flag alone, with other flags, and on special occasions. Displaying a flag outside your home or business is a meaningful way to honor the nation, and following the Flag Code ensures you do so respectfully. Use this overview to learn how to display the U.S. flag correctly, including how to fly it alongside other flags.
General Guidelines for Flying the Flag
No matter where or how you fly it, a few universal guidelines apply when displaying the American flag. These rules remain the same even when the U.S. flag is flown with state, organizational, or international flags.
1. Avoid Weather Damage
The flag should always be clean and in good condition. Retire any flag that becomes tattered or faded. To prevent weather damage, do not fly your flag in poor conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or strong winds. If you use an all-weather flag designed for durability, it may remain up during mild rain or snow—but still avoid extreme weather that could harm the fabric or pole.
2. Raising and Lowering the Flag
Raising and lowering the flag is a moment of respect. The U.S. flag should always be raised first and lowered last when flown with other flags. Raise it briskly to the top of the pole, and lower it slowly and ceremoniously. Never allow the flag to touch the ground during this process.
3. Do Not Fly the Flag in the Dark
According to the Flag Code, the flag should only be flown from sunrise to sunset unless it is properly illuminated at night. If you wish to display your flag after dark, install a light source—such as a solar or timed spotlight—to ensure it remains visible. Regularly check your lighting and flag hardware to keep your display in top condition.
Flying Multiple Flags on the Same Pole
Many people display the U.S. flag along with state, organizational, or commemorative flags on a single pole. This setup is common for both homes and businesses, but proper placement is essential to ensure respect for the American flag.
1. Put Old Glory on Top
The American flag must always occupy the highest position on the pole. No other flag—state, organizational, or otherwise—should fly above it. The only exception is at the United Nations Headquarters, where all national flags are flown beneath the U.N. flag on international soil.
2. Size Your Flags Appropriately
The U.S. flag should be equal in size or larger than any other flag flown beneath it. A state or organizational flag that is larger than the U.S. flag diminishes its prominence and violates proper etiquette. Always ensure accompanying flags are the same size or smaller.
Using Multiple Flagpoles
Larger properties often use several flagpoles to display multiple flags. In this case, flag placement and height determine order of prominence. The following recommendations will help maintain proper respect and visual balance.
1. Flagpoles of the Same Height
When using poles of uniform height, place the U.S. flag on the far left from the primary viewing angle—typically the street or main entrance. State flags follow to the right, arranged alphabetically, and organizational or company flags come after. Ensure all flags are equal in size or smaller than the U.S. flag.
2. Flagpoles of Different Heights
If flagpoles vary in height, fly the U.S. flag on the tallest and most central pole. The state and organizational flags should appear on shorter poles arranged from left to right in order of prominence. This setup ensures the U.S. flag remains the focal point.
3. Flying Flags of Other Nations
When displaying international flags during times of peace, each national flag must fly at the same height and be of equal size. Every flag should have its own pole, and none should appear above another. On American soil, the U.S. flag holds the position of honor on the leftmost pole. This respectful arrangement reflects equality among nations while maintaining proper prominence for Old Glory.
Investing in a high-quality, USA-made flag and pole ensures your display meets these standards. When you need trusted products that uphold American craftsmanship, choose Flags USA—where every flag is made right here in the United States.
