If you’re thinking of installing a flagpole in front of your home or business, there are many things you have to take into consideration. Not only do you need to carefully plan where the flagpole is going to be placed, you may even want more than one flagpole. However, not every decision you make will be able the flagpole itself. You will also need to be aware of how to properly handle the American flag and any other flags you may be flying.
Where to Place a Flagpole
When you are installing a flagpole, it is best to think of it as its own landscape project. Just as you would carefully consider the location of a new tree or a water feature, you need to give the same thought and care to a flagpole. The structure or features of your house or business can affect how a flag will look. A flagpole may look better front and center, or shifted off to the left or right. Depending on where your flagpole is located, you may even wish to landscape at its base with flowers or pavers. When you are installing a flagpole, you are making a statement. And you do not want that statement to be overshadowed or looked over.
In addition to the placement of your flagpole, you also need to consider how big it will be. Flags come in all different sizes, from the little ones on sticks to ones the size of a football field. Although it is recommended that the flagpole not be taller than the height of your roof, there are also guidelines for how big the pole should be based on the size of the flag- or flags- being flown.
It is also important to take into consideration how close the flagpole is located to objects that might damage it or the flag(s). Remember that trees grow and although no branches are currently near the flagpole, this could change in the future.
How to Fly Multiple Flags
Especially if you are installing a flagpole at a place of business, you may wish to fly more than one flag or even have multiple flagpoles. If this is the case, then there are certain rules for how other flags can be flown with and along side the American flag. Other flags you could be considering flying are flags of state, communities, or societies/organizations. If you are flying more than one flag on a flagpole, the American flag always needs to be the one on top; it is the first raised and the last lowered. Additionally, any other flags flown can be smaller, but none can be bigger than the American flag.
If you have more than one flagpole, then they should be at least 2 feet more than the length of your largest flag away from each other. If you are flying the national banners of multiple countries, then all the flagpoles must be of the same height, and the flags of the same size. The flag of one nation may not be displayed above any others. When the American flag is being flown with flags of state, communities, or societies/organizations on separate flagpoles that are in a straight line and the same height, the American flag must be placed in the position of honor. This would be the flag’s right, or your left if you are facing toward the flags.
How to Care for the American Flag
Public Law 94-344, also known as the Federal Flag Code, contains strict guidelines on how to handle and display the American flag. The Federal Code makes it clear that the flag is a living symbol. Because of this, there are certain things you need to know about caring for your flag. Although the traditional guidelines say that the American flag should only be displayed from sunrise until sunset, you may display it throughout the night if it is properly illuminated. If it is not, then the flag will have to be taken down each night. The flag will also need to be taken down in the case of harsh weather- sch as rain, snow, or wind- that could damage it. If you have an all-weather flag, it may remain out. However, in the extreme event of a tropical storm or tornado, the flag should not be displayed.
It is said that the flag should be raised briskly and lowered cautiously. When you are raising and lowering the flag, you must make sure that it does not touch the ground at all. If you are storing the flag, then you must make sure that it is properly folded.
If your flag becomes worn or tattered, then you must make sure to properly dispose of it. Because the flag is considered a living symbol, you cannot simply throw it in the trash. Although according to the Federal Flag Code, the proper way to dispose of the American flag is to burn it, this can be dangerous. Many places, such as your local VFW, will accept old or worn flags.
Get a Quote Today
Now that you know everything there is about proper flag etiquette, you may now be considering installing a flagpole. You can request a quote today from Clarksville Fencing for a flagpole for your home or business!
