How to Dispose of a Flag Properly

It is important to care for, display, and dispose of the American flag and other respected flags, properly. In today's political climate, it may surprise you to learn that proper disposal of a flag includes burning it; however, there are equally responsible ways to dispose of flags.

When should you dispose of a flag?

There are instances that demand the destruction of an American flag. Many states also use these rules to decide when to dispose of a state flag as well. The "United States Code" states that you should destroy a flag when "it is no longer suitable for display." To most, this includes any flags that have tattered edges, holes in the fabric, or flags that are faded or frayed.

How to dispose of a flag

The recommended way to dispose of a flag is to burn it. With all of the controversy surrounding the burning of the United States flag, and with most people not living in a place that allows for such fires, other options are available. Today, you can call your local Boy Scout Troop or VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Hall, and they usually have programs in place to take care of the disposal, or can point you in the right direction.

Destroy a flag when it is tattered, stained or has holes in it. Burning the flag is an appropriate way to dispose of a flag, but today it is easier to call one of the many facilities or organizations that can help you dispose of your flag.