Costa Rica Flag vs Pabellón Nacional: Rules, Use & Etiquette
Understand the legal difference between Costa Rica’s plain national flag and the coat-of-arms Pabellón Nacional, including private use, official locations, placement rules and November 12 Pabellón Day.
Bandera Nacional vs Pabellón Nacional
Costa Rican law makes a clear distinction between the ordinary national flag and the Pabellón Nacional.
| Bandera Nacional | Pabellón Nacional |
|---|---|
| Five plain horizontal bands | Same bands plus national coat of arms |
| May be used by citizens with respect | Restricted official use |
| No coat of arms | Coat of arms in white ellipse on red band |
| General national symbol | Highest ceremonial representation of the state |
Who can fly the Costa Rica national flag?
Law 10178 says Costa Ricans may use the national flag as long as it is treated respectfully. The flag may be displayed at homes, establishments, buildings and on means of transport for patriotic celebrations and commemorations.
A citizen may also keep the national flag raised permanently in an appropriate place if all protocol, respect and legal rules are followed.
Where may the Pabellón Nacional be used?
The Pabellón is restricted to specified official state contexts. Law 10178 lists the main seats of the Supreme Powers—Casa Presidencial, the Legislative Assembly and Supreme Court—as well as the Supreme Electoral Tribunal and Costa Rican diplomatic and consular missions abroad.
The law says the Pabellón is for official acts and, in its ordinary official use, is raised at 06:00 and lowered at 18:00.
Where should the Costa Rica flag be placed?
When the national flag is displayed, the law gives it a pre-eminent position. It is placed to the right as defined from the perspective of a person standing with their back to the place where the flags are installed.
With an odd number of flags it takes the central position; with an even number, it takes the right-hand one of the two central positions. With provincial, city or society flags on a halyard, the Costa Rican flag is placed highest.
What is Día del Pabellón Nacional?
Law 10178 establishes November 12 as Día del Pabellón Nacional. Public and private educational institutions and public offices are directed to pay special honors to the Pabellón and teach its history, characteristics and correct use.
Flag and Pabellón FAQ
Can I fly the Costa Rica flag at home?
Yes, if it is treated with respect and displayed according to the rules in Law 10178.
Can I fly the Pabellón Nacional at home?
Ordinary use of the Pabellón is restricted by law to specified official contexts, with a special exception allowing private display on Día del Pabellón Nacional under respectful conditions.
What time is the Pabellón raised?
The law specifies 06:00 for raising and 18:00 for lowering in its official use.
When is Pabellón Nacional Day?
November 12.
Can text be printed on the Costa Rica flag?
No. Law 10178 prohibits adding legends to the national flag.
Law 10178 — Flag, Pabellón and Coat of Arms rules
Supreme Electoral Tribunal — legislation index
