Flag Protocol

National flags vary in shape and proportion. The normal practice when flags are flown together is for them to be made to suit the flag of the host country. Thus in Britain we supply flags to match the Union Jack (2:1 proportion) unless requested otherwise.

If you are purchasing flags for use overseas you may consider changing the proportions of your flags to match those of the host nation as a sign of courtesy.

Flag Protocol

Where there are two or more flagpoles next to one another the home national flag should be flown from the flagpole on the left when facing a building. In the event of one flagpole being taller than the others, the home national flag should be flown from the tallest.

All other national flags should be placed from the left in alphabetical order.

Sizing of Flags

When the flag is to be flown on top of the building the safest way to estimate its size is to draw a scale diagram to show the height of the building and the size of the flagstaff. It is then a simple matter to draw a suitably sized flag. Don't forget to take account of any supporting stays or struts which could foul the flag when it is limp against the flagstaff.

When a flag is to fly from a flagpole set in the ground it is suggested that one yard of flag should be allowed for each 10' of pole. A 25' pole would therefore need a 2.5 yard flag and a 40' pole, a 4 yard flag.