U.S. Flag Code & Etiquette: Display, Half-Staff and Respect Rules
Title 4 of the U.S. Code sets out customs for displaying and respecting the flag. Most provisions function as etiquette rules rather than ordinary criminal penalties.
What is the U.S. Flag Code?
The Flag Code is contained mainly in Chapter 1 of Title 4 of the United States Code. It covers when the flag should be displayed, its position relative to other flags, half-staff procedures and standards of respect.
When can the flag be flown?
Traditional guidance calls for display from sunrise to sunset. The flag may also be displayed continuously if it is properly illuminated during darkness. It should not be exposed to damaging weather unless it is an all-weather flag.
Where should the union appear?
When displayed flat or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the flag’s own right—that is, to the observer’s left. In a procession, placement depends on whether the flag is carried with another flag or in a line of flags.
How does half-staff work?
The flag is first raised to the peak briefly and then lowered to the half-staff position. Before being lowered for the day, it is again raised briefly to the peak. Presidential or gubernatorial proclamations govern many official half-staff periods.
Respect and handling
The Code says the flag should not touch the ground, floor or water, should not be used as drapery or clothing, and should not carry lettering or advertising. A flag that is no longer fit for display should be destroyed in a dignified manner.
Is violating the Flag Code a crime?
Most Flag Code provisions are rules of custom and respect rather than generally enforceable criminal penalties. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notes that the federal Flag Code itself contains no general penalty for misuse, while separate state laws and constitutional free-speech issues may be relevant in particular contexts.
Quick reference
| Night display | Permitted if properly illuminated |
|---|---|
| Bad weather | Avoid unless using an all-weather flag |
| Touching ground | Should be avoided |
| Half-staff | Raise to peak first, then lower |
| Disposal | Dignified destruction when no longer fit |
