When Cities Can Fly Flags at Half-Staff

From time to time, city officials receive requests to lower flags to half-staff in honor of a local leader, public servant, or community member. While the gesture is a meaningful sign of respect and remembrance, cities should understand the rules and traditions surrounding when flags may be lowered.

Under the U.S. Flag Code, 4 U.S.C. Ch. 1, the authority to order the American flag flown at half-staff rests with the President of the United States or a state governor. These orders are typically issued to honor national leaders, fallen military service members, or to mark significant national tragedies or memorial observances.

Governors may also direct flags to be lowered within their state for the death of state officials, members of the armed forces from that state, or other individuals whose passing warrants statewide recognition.

City officials may wish to honor a respected community member by lowering flags at city buildings. While this practice is common, the U.S. Flag Code does not authorize local governments to officially order the U.S. flag flown at half-staff.

However, the flag code is considered guidance rather than an enforceable law, and many communities voluntarily lower their flags in recognition of a local loss or tragedy as a sign of respect. Additionally, local governing bodies can enact ordinances governing how and when their city displays and lowers the flag.

When lowering the flag, it should first be raised briefly to the top of the staff, then lowered to the halfway position. When removing it, the flag should again be raised to the top before being taken down.

Note: KLC Business Development Manager Sarah Stoll is an expert in flag etiquette and protocol and is available to assist with questions. Additional guidance may also be available through local chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Boy Scouts of America, or the American Legion.