The United States Flag Code establishes advisory rules for display and care of the flag of the United States.  The Flag Code is a U.S. federal law, however there is no penalty for failure to comply with it because enforcement of such a law would conflict with the First Amendment right to freedom of speech.  Although Flag Etiquette is not widely enforced, most upstanding US citizens are respectful of the standards that the Flag Code puts in place, and treat the flag as an honored symbol of the United States, our constitution, and all the ideals this country stands for.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Flag Etiquette.  These questions are oftentimes overlooked, but they are very pertinent to the display of American Flags, and everyone should know this simple flag etiquette. 

I want to hang a flag against the side of my house.  In which corner should the stars go? 

When displaying the flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, the flag’s union (stars) should be at the top, to the observer’s upper left corner.

My flag is old, tattered, and worn out.  How should I dispose of it? 

When US Flags are old and ready to be retired, they must be disposed of in a dignified manner, preferably by burning for cotton and wool flags and by burial for flags made of nylon or other synthetics.  It is recommended that you contact your local VFW Chapter for help in disposing your flag.

My flag touched the ground, does that mean I have to get rid of it?

You should avoid having your flag touch the ground, but if it does, contrary to popular belief, the Flag Code does not state that the flag must be destroyed.  If the flag has been dirtied, you may clean it with mild soap and water, dry it, and return it to use.

Is it OK to have articles of clothing with US Flags on them?

The Flag Code states that the flag may never be worn, and its likeness should never be placed on anything such as napkins, plates, boxes, or anything that will be discarded.  Nothing should ever be written on, or attached to the flag.

Can I display State Flags and other national flags with my US Flag?

When displayed with State Flags, the American flag should be place in the position of highest honor (the observer’s extreme left, or the highest point in a grouping of flags).  The state flag can be smaller or approximately the same size as the US Flag, but never larger.  If flown from two separate staffs, state flags and foreign national flags must be at the same height and of equal size as the US Flag.   

Is there ever a time when my flag should not be displayed?

It is customary to fly a flag from sunrise to sunset, however if a patriotic effect is desired, US Flags can be flown 24 hours a day, as long as they are properly illuminated in the darkness.