Flag Facts: How Many Flags Can You Fly on a Flagpole?

3 mins read

Are you looking to purchase a telescoping flagpole for your property? Do you want to fly the American flag proudly, but also have a few other flags you’d like to fly? If so, then you need to learn all you can about how many different flags you can fly on a flagpole.

The answer is a bit more in-depth than you might think. There isn’t a set number of flags you can or can’t fly, however, there are some types of flags you should not fly at the same time.

See below for an in-depth guide that lists how many different flags you can fly on a flagpole at any given time.

How Many Flags Can You Fly on a Flagpole?

The answer depends on a few things. Here are a few questions to help you determine proper etiquette for the flags you want to fly.

  • Is the American flag one of the flags you’re wanting to fly?
  • How big/small are the other flags you wish to fly?
  • How large (and sturdy) is your flagpole?
  • Do you have other national flags you wish to fly?

If the answer to the first question is “yes” (you will be flying an American flag), then you need to make sure it’s always on the top. The only time that it’s hung at the same level as another flag is when you’re hanging a different nation’s flag. Even then, the American flag should never be hung below it.

 

The size of the flags also matters. You should never have a flag share the same flagpole as the American flag if it’s larger than the Stars and Stripes.

To answer the overall question for this portion of the article, we’ll say this: you generally don’t want to exceed two or three flags at a time. Doing so can make the flagpole too busy and might come off as offensive to some that see it. It diverts attention away from the American flag (which you’re not supposed to do).

What if I Have Another Nation’s Flag I Wish to Fly?

There’s a common misconception out there about flying different nations’ flags simultaneously. People tend to think that they aren’t allowed to fly more than one flag at a time.

That isn’t the case. Here’s the thought process behind any national flag: they all deserve to be flown at the same height and the flags need to be the same size. It’s a great way to show uniformity among the many nations.

However, there should never be more than one nation’s flag flying on a single pole. For one, that would make it impossible to fly the flags at the same height. For two, it creates a better aesthetic when they each have their own flagpole.

 

If you have another nation’s flag you wish to fly (such as your home country’s flag, for example), then by all means go for it! Just make sure to purchase a separate Titan telescoping flag pole kit and install them next to each other. That way, they can fly in unison and create an amazing aesthetic.

Can I Display the American Flag at Night?

This is yet another rule that most people are confused about. The confusion comes from the military rules of raising the flag at dawn and lowering the flag before dusk. Because of that rule, many people think the flag has to be taken down before nightfall.

But that isn’t the reason for the rule. The reason they take it down before dusk is that the flag would not be visible, which is showing it disrespect.

However, if you had a way to make your American flag visible at night, then you could absolutely keep it up. Be sure to invest in some solar lights that will shine brightly on the Red, White, and Blue while you sleep.

If you don’t have solar lights or have no intention of buying any, then make sure to lower your flag before nightfall each day.

 

Can I Fly My City/State Flag?

Some of you know the answer to this question already if you walk by a local government building frequently enough.

The answer is yes. You can fly your city flag or state flag on the same flagpole as your American flag. However, you need to make sure you’re following some rules while you do it.

Make sure that the city/state flag is either the same size or smaller than your U.S. flag. Also, remember to keep your American flag at the top of the flagpole, keeping about a foot between the two flags.

When Should the Flag Fly Half Staff?

This is one of the more confusing parts of flying the U.S. flag to some people. The thing to remember is that half-mast flags are used to mourn the loss of a significant figure to the United States.

This could include—but isn’t limited to—presidents, vice presidents, or government figures. The half-staff flag symbolizes sorrow and respect for their loss.

 

However, flags should also be placed at half-mast during Memorial Day, a holiday that’s used to remember all those that have served (and died) protecting our freedom.

Fly Your Flags on a New Flagpole Today

Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on how many flags you should fly on a flagpole, as well as many other important answers, be sure to use this information to your advantage.

Start by browsing our website for more articles on flag flying, as well as many other helpful topics that you will enjoy reading about.