What To Know About Flying Secondary Flags

What To Know About Flying Secondary Flags

Posted by Hayley Adams on Jul 11th 2024

Can I fly two flags on the same flagpole? 

Yes! Flying two flags on the same flagpole is a great way to share your pride and show your support for various interests. In fact, flying two flags on an outdoor flagpole is actually a fairly common practice. There are just a few things to note when considering flying two flags. 

The primary flag, which is the top flag, should be based on the height of your flagpole (see below). The secondary flag, the lower flag, should be equal to or one size smaller than the primary flag. This is usually based on your personal preference and how you'd like your flags to appear. 

Additionally, the primary flag should always be whichever flag is first in order of precedence. For example, an American flag should always be the primary flag flown above any U.S. State flag when being flown on the same pole. 

How do I know what size flags to choose?

Here are some common flagpole heights and appropriate flag sizes for secondary flags if you choose to select a smaller secondary flag.

  • 20' flagpole = 3x5' primary flag, 2'×3' secondary flag
  • 25' flagpole = 4'x6' primary flag, 3×5' secondary flag
  • 30'-35' flagpole = 5'x8' primary flag, 4' x6' secondary flag
  • 40'-45' flagpole = 6x10' primary flag, 5'×8' secondary flag
  • 50'-55' flagpole = 8'x12' primary flag, 6'x10' secondary flag
  • Above 60' flagpole = Consult for recommendation

What flags can I fly together? 

While it's okay to hang state, city, or organizational flags beneath the US flag on your single flagpole, you should not fly flags of different nations beneath it. Instead, the US Flag Code mandates that you fly national flags on other poles, but at the same level as your US flag. 

These actions ensure that you show both flags the proper respect during peacetime. Don’t forget that both flags must also be the same size when you hang them.

How do I add a second flag to my flagpole?

To add a second flag, you basically will be repeating the process you followed to attach the first one. (Checkout some of our how-to videos for more info!) Some flags will require an extra set of snap hooks, while others might require additional elements when trying to add a secondary flag. If you need help or looking for more in depth explination, feel free to call us at 512-847-0010.  

The real question is how much space to allow between the two flags, which is mostly a question of aesthetics and relative size. If your flags are smaller in size, you might allow 4 to 6 inches of space between them. If your flags are larger, though, consider consulting one of our reps at Eagle Mountain for recommendations of size and spacing.