Flying The Flag Half-Staff

For many patriotic holidays, it is proper flag etiquette to fly your American flag at a half-staff position. Please refer to our flag holiday guide to make sure you follow proper flag etiquette and recognize which days certain flag etiquette applies.

What is half-staff?
Half-staff is defined as half the distance from the top of a flagpole to the bottom where it meets the ground. If you are flying a single flag, the center point of the American flag should be aligned with the center point of the pole.

What if I'm flying multiple flags on a flagpole?
If you are flying more than one flag on your flagpole, all of your flags should be lowered to half-staff. Measure the length from the top of the first flag to the bottom of the last flag. Align the center point of the flag group with the center point of the pole. Keep in mind that the American flag should always fly on the top of any flag group when on the same flagpole.

Is there a proper way to lower and raise a flag to half-staff?
When the American flag is flown at half-staff, it should be raised to the peak of the flagpole for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. When retiring the flag at the end of the day, this procedure should be repeated before removing your flag.

What if I'm not using an in-ground flagpole?
If your flag is on an outrigger flagpole or mounted on a wall and cannot be flown at half-staff, it is appropriate to tie a black mourning ribbon above the flag.