US Flag Code
- § 1 Stars and Stripes
- § 2 Additional Stars
- § 3 Use of the Flag for advertising; mutilation
- § 4 Pledge of Allegiance
- § 5 Display and use of Flag by civilians; codifications of rules and customs
- § 6 Time and occasions for display
- § 7 Position and manner of display
- § 8 Respect for flag
- § 9 Conduct during hoisting, lowering or passing of flag
- § 10 Modification of rules and customs by President
The United States Flag Code
Guidelines for the Display and Use of the U.S. Flag by Civilians
Title 4- US Code § 5
Old Glory or The Stars and Stripes — is known throughout the world as the symbol of freedom.
Key Points of Section 5
- Guidelines for Civilians: Provides rules for civilians and civilian organizations on flag display and handling.
- No Legal Penalties: The Flag Code is advisory, with no penalties for non-compliance; adherence is voluntary.
- Customary Use: Encourages flag display and handling per established customs, detailed in Sections 6–10.
Full Text (4 U.S.C. § 5)
"The following codification of existing rules and customs pertaining to the display and use of the flag of the United States of America is established for the use of such civilians or civilian groups or organizations as may not be required to conform with regulations promulgated by one or more executive departments of the Government of the United States."
Context and Implications
Purpose
Sets the tone for the Flag Code as a guide for patriotic observance, not a legally enforceable statute for civilians.
Scope
Applies to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and groups not subject to military or federal flag regulations.
Subsequent Sections
Detailed rules (e.g., not displaying the flag upside down except in distress, not letting it touch the ground) are covered in Sections 6–10.