The etiquette of flying the union flag

Understanding UK flag etiquette is essential when displaying the Union Flag at homes, businesses, schools, and public events. Whether you are flying the flag for a national celebration, remembrance, or everyday display, following proper Union Flag rules ensures it is shown with respect and pride.

This guide explains how to fly the Union Flag correctly, covering orientation, half-mast rules, flag-flying days, and best practice.

What is the correct name for the UK flag?

The official name of the UK’s national flag is the Union Flag. The term “Union Jack” is commonly used and is technically correct when the flag is flown at sea, but both names are widely accepted in modern usage.

The flag combines:

• The Cross of St George (England)
• The Cross of St Andrew (Scotland)
• The Cross of St Patrick (Ireland)

How to fly the union flag the right way up

One of the most important rules of UK flag etiquette is ensuring the flag is not flown upside down.

To check orientation:

• The broader white diagonal stripe must sit above the red diagonal on the left-hand side when viewed from the front.
• Flying the Union Flag upside down is traditionally a signal of distress and should be avoided.

When can the union flag be flown?

In the UK, the Union Flag may be flown every day of the year, provided it is treated respectfully and remains in good condition.

The UK government also publishes a list of official flag-flying days, including:

• His Majesty The King’s Birthday
• Commonwealth Day
• Coronation Day
• Remembrance Day
• Royal anniversaries

Many public buildings and organisations follow these guidelines, though private citizens are free to fly the flag daily.

Flying the union flag at half-mast

Flying the Union Flag at half-mast is a sign of national mourning.

Correct half-mast procedure:

• Raise the flag fully to the top of the pole first
• Lower it to approximately two-thirds of the pole’s height
• At the end of the day, raise it to the top again before lowering it completely

Half-mast flying is observed following the death of senior members of the Royal Family or other nationally significant figures.

Flying the union flag with other flags

When displaying multiple flags, flag precedence is important.

Key rules:

• The Union Flag should take the position of honour
• No flag should be flown higher than the Union Flag on the same pole
• When flown with other national flags, all flags should be the same size and height
• In a line of flags, the Union Flag should be placed on the far left from the viewer’s perspective
• In a group of flags, it may be positioned centrally

Flag condition and display standards

According to UK flag etiquette, the Union Flag should:

• Be clean, untorn, and unfaded
• Never touch the ground
• Be taken down at night unless illuminated
• Be replaced if damaged or excessively worn

Damaged flags should be disposed of respectfully, ideally through recycling or textile reuse schemes.

Indoor union flag etiquette

When displayed indoors:

• The Union Flag should be positioned behind a speaker, with the top of the flag to the left
• It should not be used as a tablecloth, drape, or floor covering
• The flag should not be defaced, altered, or used as formal clothing

Using the union flag for events and commercial displays

The Union Flag is commonly used for exhibitions, sporting events, celebrations, and branding. While decorative use is widely accepted, correct orientation, high-quality materials, and respectful presentation are encouraged to maintain dignity and professionalism.

Why UK flag etiquette matters

Following UK flag-flying rules demonstrates respect for national heritage, history, and unity. Whether flown daily or on special occasions, correct use of the Union Flag reflects pride in the United Kingdom and its traditions.

By understanding and applying proper Union Flag etiquette, you can ensure the flag is always flown with honour.