What to Do if You Can’t Lower Your Flag to Half-Staff

Flying the American flag to demonstrate pride in our country, and certain national events prompt us to lower the flag to half-staff to show respect.

But what happens when you can’t lower your flag to half-staff? We have some strategies to help you signal your patriotism without lowering your flags.

When to Fly Flags at Half-Staff

Flying American flags at half-staff is a symbol of national mourning. This happens whenever a major death, tragic event, or day of remembrance occurs.

For example, Memorial Day is a national holiday that commemorates members of the military who have died serving their country. American flags should be flown at half-staff on Memorial Day from sunrise to noon.

This is a way to honor American heroes and express remembrance and grief as a nation.

What to Do if You Can't Lower Your Flag to Half-Staff

Presidential Deaths

In the event that a president or former president dies, all federal U.S. buildings are to fly their flags at half-staff. This rule remains in effect for 30 days after the death.

If a vice president, chief justice, or retired chief justice dies, the flag is flown at half-staff for 10 days.

National Orders for Half-Staff

The President of the United States may also issue an order to practice this exercise when an important government official dies. This can include foreign dignitaries, former U.S. officials, and other prominent figures.

In this case, the half-staff orders will remain in effect for the duration specified by the President.

Alternative to Half-Staff: Use a Black Ribbon

An appropriate way to symbolize national mourning when you can’t fly your flag at half-staff is to tie a black ribbon to your flagpole.

There are certain guidelines you should follow to keep this gesture respectful. The ribbon should be about twice the length of the short side of your flag (the hoist). Its width should be roughly equal to the width of the stripes on the flag.

You should use a fabric ribbon that you can easily tie to the top of your flagpole. Don’t attach the ribbon directly to the flag, as this is considered disrespectful. Make sure you tie the ribbon to the flagpole beneath the finial.

Fly Your Flag Proudly with Elmer’s Flag

At Elmer’s Flag, you can get high-quality American flags and flagpoles to suit your home’s needs. We also offer custom orders, so you never have to go a day without proudly displaying your patriotism.