Saint Kitts and Nevis Flag Protocol & Etiquette: Display, Half-Mast and Respect Rules
Understand the official rules for displaying the Saint Kitts and Nevis flag, including condition, placement, hours, precedence, parades and half-mast use.
Use a flag in good condition
Official Ministry of Foreign Affairs guidance says the national flag should be of regulation appearance. It should not be faded or bleached, and a torn flag should be repaired before it is hoisted.
Where should the flag be placed?
On land, the flag mast should normally be upright and placed in a central or conspicuous location. On buildings, it may be flown from a roof mast, from an angled staff on the building front, or from a balcony.
The official guidance also says the flag mast should be painted white.
When should the flag be flown?
The national flag is flown every day from public buildings from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.. It may also be flown from government buildings, schools when in session, and places of business.
It should not normally be flown outdoors after 6:00 p.m. On important ceremonial occasions it may remain outside after that time if it is illuminated where possible.
How is it displayed with other flags?
No other flag should be flown above the Saint Kitts and Nevis flag. When several national flags are displayed together, they should be on separate staffs of the same height and, as far as possible, of the same size.
When grouped on staffs, the national flag should occupy the central and highest point. When two crossed flags are displayed against a wall, the Saint Kitts and Nevis flag should appear on the observer’s left, with its staff in front.
Flag protocol in parades
When carried with other flags, the national flag should be on the marching right or in front of the center of the line of flags. When the flag passes in a parade, review, or hoisting/lowering ceremony, people present should face the flag and stand at attention.
When is the flag flown at half-mast?
The national flag may be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning. Official protocol governs how this is done and may be accompanied by formal government instructions for national mourning.
FAQ
What hours is the flag normally flown on public buildings?
From 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Can another flag be flown above it?
No. Official protocol says no other flag should be displayed above the national flag.
Can a private citizen fly the flag?
Yes. The official guidance says a citizen may fly it on a day of special significance from an upright staff at a dwelling or place of business.
When is it flown at half-mast?
As a sign of mourning, according to official instructions and protocol.
