For schools, businesses, or municipalities that want to fly an American flag and/or the flags of their state, city, and organization, an inground flagpole is a great addition to their building. However, these flagpoles need to be installed correctly. Here are some tips for installing your flagpole:
- Review the installation instructions to determine the size of the area needed for the base. The diameter of the hole for the base of the flagpole will need to be four to six times the diameter of the flagpole.
- Contact your local wire and utility locator to determine that the area where you plan to place the base is safe to dig. If you are unable to dig in the chosen area, you’ll need to determine other options for installation.
- Make sure there is enough distance between your flagpole and other structures (including other flagpoles) to fly your flag unobstructed. This distance should be at least a couple feet more than the length of the flag you plan to fly from your flagpole.
- Follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the flagpole will be secure and level when placed in the base.
- Per the U.S. Flag Code, the flag should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset, although the Flag Code permits night time display “when a patriotic effect is desired” and the flag is illuminated. Illumination can be achieved by having a dedicated light shine on the flag or by placement near existing light sources.
- Similarly, the U.S. flag should be displayed only when the weather is fair, except when an all-weather flag is displayed.
- If you are concerned about vandalism, your flagpole can be outfitted with either a lockable internal halyard or an external halyard with a lockable cleat cover.
If you’re unsure about how to fully complete any steps of the installation, you may prefer to have a professional install the flagpole for you. Please contact us if you have any questions about our flagpole installation services, or get in touch with us if you have any other questions.
Image Credit: Mesa-WAFB Flagpole-1 by Marine 69-71 at English Wikipedia