Canadian Flag Etiquette & Half-Masting
How Canada’s national flag should be displayed, treated, replaced and lowered to half-mast according to Canadian Heritage guidance.
Flying the flag
Canadian Heritage says the National Flag of Canada should normally fly alone on its own mast. When displayed with other flags, established precedence and positioning rules apply.
Can it be flown at night?
Yes. Unlike some national flag codes, Canadian guidance permits the flag to be flown at night without illumination.
Respectful treatment
The flag should not be written on, marked, covered with objects, or have items pinned or sewn onto it. It should never be dipped or lowered toward the ground as a salute.
Faded or torn flags
A faded, torn or badly worn flag should be replaced. Canadian Heritage recommends destroying an unusable flag in a dignified way.
Half-masting
Half-masting is used as a sign of mourning. For federal buildings, Canada has specific rules governing mandatory and discretionary half-masting. As a general rule, a flag is first raised to the masthead before being lowered to the half-mast position, and again raised to the top before final lowering.
Are the federal half-masting rules mandatory for everyone?
No. Canadian Heritage explains that the federal rules apply to Government of Canada buildings and establishments. Provinces, territories, municipalities, organizations and individuals may follow their own protocols.
FAQ
Can the Canadian flag be flown at night?
Yes, and it does not need to be illuminated.
Can you write on a Canadian flag?
Official guidance says the flag should not be written on or marked.
Should the Canadian flag be dipped in salute?
No. It should never be dipped or lowered to the ground as a salute.
How is a flag lowered to half-mast?
It is first raised to the masthead and then lowered to the appropriate half-mast position.
