Many homeowners want to fly the American flag day and night. The U.S. Flag Code allows it, as long as the flag is properly lit after dark. Good American flag lighting lets everyone see your flag clearly, all night long.
What does the U.S. Flag Code say about flying the flag at night?
According to the U.S. Flag Code, Section 6(a): “It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.”
What counts as “proper illumination” for a flag?
The Code doesn’t define “properly.” The American Legion offers guidance: “The American Legion defines ‘proper illumination’ as a dedicated light aimed at the flag (preferred) or any light source strong enough for the flag to be clearly visible and recognizable to a casual observer.”
How do you light an American flag properly?
Depending on the flag’s size and location, a few lights near the base of the pole make a tremendous difference. The flag becomes a strong focal point at night, and its red, white and blue stand out.
We consider the flag’s height and size. Then we choose the fixtures and beam spreads that will light it well throughout the night. Even if your flagpole is very tall, today’s LED sources are powerful enough to reach the top. And don’t forget the pole itself. It should be lit along with the flag.
Why isn’t one small light enough?
A single small fixture rarely does the job on a large flag. The flag moves with the wind, in every direction. A thoughtful design keeps it lit wherever it flies.
American flag lighting in Raleigh
Joe Yanulevich spent more than 35 years in concert and theatrical lighting before he began lighting landscapes. He knows how to light a moving subject so it reads clearly from every angle. His work has earned Masters of Landscape Lighting recognition.
We’d be honored to design low voltage lighting for your flag. For more ideas, read Where to Place Landscape Lighting and Landscape Lighting for Safety and Beauty. When you’re ready, contact Lite Visions. Long may it wave.
Give us a call: Nine one Nine-518-9950
