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Luxe Prestige Chronicle

the proper way to hang the american flag

Author

Emily Wong

Updated on May 27, 2026

When hanging the Flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, the Flag’s union (stars) should be at the top, to the Flag’s own right and the observer’s left.

How is the American flag supposed to be hung?

Hang flag vertically with the canton farthest from the building. The union, or star field, should always be at the top and should be on the flag’s own right (the viewer’s left). When being hung over a street, the union should ideally point north or east.

Is it OK to hang the American flag vertically?

Don’t hang your flag backwards, upside down, or in another inappropriate fashion. If you’re hanging your flag vertically (like from a window or against a wall), the Union portion with the stars should go on the observer’s left. Never dip the flag to any person or anything.

How do you display the American flag on a house?

Ideally, an American flag on your house should hang from a staff that angles out from the front wall or a windowsill or balcony. It’s a good idea to screw a bracket made for holding the flagstaff to the trim. Fasten it securely and so the flag won’t become soiled or damaged.

Are you supposed to take the flag down when it rains?

The U.S. Flag Code addresses the rules for flying flags, rain or shine. It is specific on what to do in the case of rain. The United States Code, Title 36, Chapter 10, states: “The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, except when an all-weather flag is displayed.”

Can the American flag be flown at night without a light?

The US Flag Code states that it is illegal to fly the US flag at night without adequate light. The American flag code is part of federal law. Each state using it as a foundation for its own specific flag codes regarding the handling and display of the American flag.

How do you hang an outdoor flag on the wall?

Hang the flag with the union at the top to the observer’s left. Whether you hang the flag vertically or horizontally, the union, or field of blue with white stars, should be at the top left side. The flag’s own right, or the observer’s left, is considered the position of prominence.

Is it disrespectful to hang a flag on a wall?

The U.S. Flag Code allows the American flag to be displayed on a wall — but only if it’s mounted in the appropriate position. According to the U.S. Flag Code, the American flag should be mounted on walls, windows or doors with the stars on the left (from an observer’s perspective).

What is proper flag etiquette?

The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free. The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored so that it might be easily torn, soiled, or damaged in any way. The flag should never be used as covering for a ceiling. The flag should never have anything placed on it.

How do you display the American flag on a car?

A single flag should fly from the right (passenger) side of the vehicle. If two flags are displayed, it’s okay to put one on each side, but they should be mounted at the same height and be hung in the same way. The flag should be displayed with the stars in the upper left-hand corner, with an important exception.

What angle should a flag be hung?

Mount the flagpole off the building so it makes a 90-degree angle with the side of the building. The flagpole needs to be parallel with the ground so the flag hangs vertically on it. Make sure the flagpole you use is long enough to keep the edge of the flag from brushing against the side of the building.

How do you hang a flag on a porch?

The Front Porch

When flying an American flag on your front porch, keep in mind that the union of the flag should be at the highest point on the flagpole (unless the flag is at half staff). The union is the blue field and stars of the flag. Say your flag is on a pole pointing out towards your front lawn.

How do you hang a decorative flag on a house?

4 Steps to Mount a Flag
Step 1: Find Location for the Flag. You will want to choose a good location to display your flag. Step 2: Attach Flag to Pole. Before you install the pole using the mounting bracket, first attach the flag to the pole. Step 3: Mount the Bracket. Step 4: Insert Flagpole Into Mounting Bracket.

What are 3 things you should never do to the flag?

Quick list of Flag Etiquette Don’ts:
Don’t dip the U.S. Flag for any person, flag, or vessel.Don’t let the flag touch the ground.Don’t fly flag upside down unless there is an emergency.Don’t carry the flag flat, or carry things in it.Don’t use the flag as clothing.Don’t store the flag where it can get dirty.

Is it OK to leave a flag out overnight?

According to the US Flag Code, all American flags should be displayed from sunrise to sunset every day. Lowering the flag at night is an ultimate sign of respect for Old Glory. But like many rules, there is an exception. You can keep your flag flying 24-hours if it is properly illuminated during all hours of darkness.

At what wind speed do you take down the American flag?

How Wind Affects a Flag. Eight to eleven miles per hour is the ideal wind speed range for a flag to unfurl completely in the way we envision a flag flying proudly. That said, exposure to wind and the elements can wear out your flag over time.