In its most simple form, the U.S. flag is a piece of decorative fabric. However, it means so much more to this nation. It symbolizes the values, history, and freedom of the United States of America. It also represents the sacrifices made by countless people to protect and uphold the principles of this nation.
A great way to honor these values and heroes is by displaying the U.S. flag in front of your home or business. Displaying the flag also comes with responsibility and a code to uphold. We’ll explain the essential laws you should know about flying the Stars and Stripes, including when and how to fly it.
The U.S. Flag Code is a set of guidelines that dictate how to handle and display the flag respectfully and properly. Enacted on June 14, 1923 and later adopted by Congress in 1942, these guidelines ensure the flag is treated with the dignity it commands. While not legally enforceable, adherence to the Flag Code is a matter of national pride and respect.
Understanding these guidelines not only honors the flag but also unifies citizens under a shared respect for their nation. Flag bearers have much to understand, so we’ll cover the most significant laws you should know about flying the Stars and Stripes.
One of the fundamental flag code rules is that owners should display the U.S. flag from sunrise to sunset. This practice symbolizes vigilance and respect. If you wish to display the flag at night, you must illuminate it—a U.S. flag flying in the dark is disrespectful. Lighting up the flags keeps it as a visible symbol of the nation’s ideals, even in the dark. With advancements in LEDs, illuminating your flag is easy! If you want to display your flag 24/7, you should invest in reliable illumination.
The flag must never touch the ground, water, or any object beneath it. Allowing it to touch the ground is a sign of disrespect. If your flag accidentally touches the ground, you should clean it if spoiled, then fold it.
A useful tip is to securely fasten the flag and display it at an appropriate height to avoid accidental contact with the ground. When installing and raising the flag on a pole or other display, ask someone else to hold it for you or bring a table to keep it off the ground while you work.
You should only fly the flag when it’s in good condition—flying a tattered or worn-out flag is immensely disrespectful. If your flag becomes torn or frayed, you are responsible for taking it down, repairing or disposing of it, and flying a new or repaired flag.
It’s important to buy flags from reputable vendors that use durable materials, like Action Flag. We have many American flags for sale that we manufacture with care and diligence to ensure their durability for years.
When removing the flag or putting it into storage, you can’t just bundle it up however you like. Knowing how to fold the U.S. flag properly is respectful. The correct method results in a triangular shape reminiscent of the hats worn by colonial soldiers.
This specific fold symbolizes honor, and the military employs the fold for special ceremonies. Practicing this fold can be a meaningful way to involve family members and instill a sense of respect and pride in younger generations. Many government websites explain how to do this step-by-step. You can also find video tutorials online.
The flag flies at half-staff to honor and mourn the loss of principal government leaders or upon presidential or gubernatorial orders. When flying the flag at half-staff, first raise it to the peak for an instant, then lower it to the half-staff position.
The act of lowering the flag is a powerful gesture of respect and remembrance, uniting citizens during times of sorrow. Many websites provide alerts when an order goes out to fly flags at half-staff. Check these websites so that you’re always in the know.
The U.S. flag is always the most important, so when displaying multiple flags, none should fly above or on the same level. This rule ensures that the Star Spangled Banner retains its position of prominence. Raise the U.S. flag before all others, and lower it after all others. This practice underscores the flag’s superior status to all other symbols on U.S. soil.
Many people like to fly flags on their vehicles to show patriotism. This is certainly allowed, but drivers must be aware of regulations regarding the display. When displaying the Stars and Stripes on a car or truck, fix it firmly to the chassis or clamp it to the right fender. This guideline encourages drivers to display the flag in a dignified manner rather than appear as an afterthought.
The Flag Code states that no one should denigrate a flag by using it as clothing, bedding, or drapery. This rule exists to prevent the flag from being used in a manner that diminishes its stature. Instead, you should only display the flag in its complete form, free from modification.
When a flag is no longer fit for display, the owner should destroy it in a dignified and respectful manner. The Flag Code states you should never throw it in the trash, even if it’s in tatters. Instead, burn the flag to dispose of it respectfully. Many American Legion posts and other organizations conduct flag retirement ceremonies, which provide a dutiful way to retire the flag.
Owners should prominently display the U.S. flag on national holidays and any other significant events or celebrations that hold national importance, reflecting the pride and unity of our nation.
We hope our guide has been informative regarding the regulations and laws surrounding the Star Spangled Banner. If you’d like to proudly display your patriotism, consider Action Flag for all your flag needs. Browse our inventory of outdoor, indoor, parade, classroom, and stick flags today.
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