How to Properly Fly Flags at Half Staff for Non-Government Buildings

Flying the American flag at half-staff is a powerful symbol of mourning and respect. While the U.S. Flag Code provides official guidance for federal buildings and government institutions, many businesses, schools, and private organizations also choose to lower their flags during national tragedies, memorial observances, or the passing of significant individuals.

If you own a non-government building and want to honor the flag correctly, you may be wondering: Do I have to follow federal half-staff orders? How do I know when to lower my flag? What’s the proper way to raise and lower it? This guide answers those questions while referencing official flag protocol for flying flags at half-staff.

Do Non-Government Buildings Have to Follow Half-Staff Orders?

Unlike federal buildings, businesses, schools, and private organizations are not required to lower their flags when the President or a state governor issues a half-staff proclamation. However, many choose to participate as a sign of unity and respect.

In general, private flag owners are encouraged to follow official half-staff orders, especially when they apply nationwide (such as on Memorial Day, Patriot Day, or the passing of a U.S. President). It’s also common for schools and businesses to lower their flags following local tragedies, the passing of community leaders, or other solemn occasions.

If you’re unsure whether to lower your flag, you can check official half-staff announcements or state government websites. Many organizations, including veterans' groups and flag retailers, also provide updates when a half-staff order is issued.

When Should Non-Government Buildings Fly the Flag at Half-Staff?

While federal buildings have strict guidelines on when to lower the flag, non-government institutions have some flexibility. Here are common occasions when private organizations choose to fly their flags at half-staff:

  • Nationally Recognized Days – Many businesses and schools observe half-staff traditions on Memorial Day (until noon), Patriot Day (Sept. 11), Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (Dec. 7), and Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15).

  • Presidential Proclamations – When the President orders flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide (such as after the death of a sitting or former President), many private flag owners follow suit.

  • State or Local Mourning Periods – Governors often issue state-level half-staff orders to honor fallen service members, law enforcement officers, or significant public figures. Businesses and community organizations may choose to participate.

  • Community Tragedies or Memorials – Private institutions sometimes lower their flags after a school shooting, natural disaster, or the passing of a local leader. While not required, this gesture can show solidarity and respect.

  • Religious or Organizational Observances – Churches, nonprofits, and certain organizations may choose to lower their flags to honor specific individuals or events significant to their communities.

Ultimately, non-government buildings have the choice to lower their flags at half-staff but should do so thoughtfully and in line with official traditions.

How to Properly Fly a Flag at Half-Staff

If you decide to lower your flag, it’s important to follow the correct procedure to show proper respect. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Raise the flag to full staff first – Before lowering the flag, always hoist it all the way to the top of the flagpole first, then lower it to the halfway position.

  2. Position it at the halfway point – The flag should be lowered to a point where it’s about halfway between the top and bottom of the pole.

  3. Keep it at half-staff for the designated time – Half-staff observances typically last from sunrise to sunset unless an official proclamation specifies a different duration. Memorial Day is the only day when the flag is lowered only until noon before being raised again.

  4. Lower the flag properly at the end of the day – When the observance period is over, raise the flag back to full staff before bringing it down for the day. If leaving it up overnight, the flag should be properly illuminated.

If your flag is mounted on a pole that doesn’t lower, such as a wall-mounted bracket, the alternative display method is to attach a black ribbon or mourning streamer to the top of the pole.

Where to Get a High-Quality American Flag

For businesses, schools, and private institutions looking to honor flag traditions, having a durable, American-made flag is essential. Colonial Flag offers a selection of high-quality U.S. flags designed for outdoor and business use.

Whether you need a wall-mounted flag for a school, a commercial flagpole for a business, or memorial flags to honor special observances, you’ll find options made to last.

Final Thoughts

For non-government buildings, flying the flag at half-staff is a meaningful choice rather than a requirement. Lowering the flag shows unity, respect, and remembrance during national or local tragedies.

By following official flag protocol and using a high-quality American-made flag, businesses and private institutions can participate in this solemn tradition with dignity and honor.