How to Display the American Flag Outdoors

Flying the American flag is a powerful expression of patriotism—but doing it properly matters. The U.S. Flag Code provides clear guidelines on how to display the flag outside your home, business, school, or public property.

Take a look at the specific situations below to help you with your location!

Displaying the American Flag from a Wall or Porch

Pole-Mounted at an Angle (Wall or Post Mount)

If you’re flying the American flag on a house-mounted flagpole, angle the pole either horizontally or diagonally upward from the building. The flag should be securely attached at the top of the pole and allowed to flow freely.

If flying multiple flags on one pole:

The American flag must be at the highest point.
Other flags (state, military, POW/MIA) should be of equal or smaller size and fly beneath it.

Learn more about US Flag Code here

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Hung Vertically on a Wall or Across a Street

When the flag is hung vertically, the blue field (union) should be in the top left corner from the viewer’s perspective.
When suspended across a street, the union should point north or east, or with the canton farthest from the building.

For more information about hanging an American flag vertically outdoors, check out the infographic to the right.

Displaying an American Flag Outside On A Flagpole

Single Flagpole with Multiple Flags

The American flag must always be on top and of equal size or greater than all other flags.
No international flags should be flown beneath the U.S. flag.
Other flags (state, service, historical) should never be larger than the American flag.
Grommet spacing on multiple flags should allow them to fly without overlapping.

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Multiple Flagpoles Side-by-Side

The American flag should fly on its own right (to the viewer’s left).
When flying with other International flags, all flags should be the same size and flown at the same height.
U.S. flags should always take precedence in prominence and position.

See Our Multi-Flagpole Display Order Infographic to the right for a visual guide!

Need a new flagpole for your outdoor display? Shop for one here!

Flying the American Flag at Night

According to flag etiquette, the American flag may only be flown at night if it is properly illuminated.

If your display is well lit by house or street lights, you’re all set.
If your flag is in shadow, you’ll need a dedicated flagpole light, like a solar flagpole light.
If you do not wish to light your flagpole, you can always bring your flag inside at dusk.

We recommend:

Top-Mounted Solar Lights – Easy to install, energy-efficient.
Ground Spotlights – Great for taller poles or larger flags.

It's also economical to bring your flag in during harsh weather to save it from excessive tearing. Most flags are considered all-weather. However, a two-ply polyester American flag is the industry's strongest and longest-lasting flag available.

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Outdoor Flag Maintenance Tips

Take your flag down during storms and high wind.
Clean your flag regularly (care instructions here) to remove dirt and pollutants.
Inspect your flagpole, mounting hardware and halyard for wear, fraying, loose clips or signs of rust.
Rotate between two or three flags for long-term durability.

How to Clean and Care for Your Flag ›
Flagpole Delivery & Installation Instructions ›

Frequently Asked Outdoor Display Questions

Q: Can I leave my flag outside during bad weather?
Yes—if it’s an all-weather flag (like our nylon or polyester options). But bringing it in during harsh weather extends its life.

Q: What’s the best material for outdoor flags?

Nylon: Lightweight, flies in light wind.
Polyester: Strongest option for high-wind areas.
Cotton: Traditional but best for indoor use.

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Additional Resources & Related Guides

For more in-depth information on flag display and flagpole selection, explore these related guides:

Have Additional Questions About How To Display An American Flag?

Our flag resources are a great place to start if you're looking for more information about displaying flags. You can also give our flag experts a call at 1-888-697-3524 or contact us online, and we'd be happy to assist you!

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