Flag Day, celebrated every year on June 14, commemorates the adoption of the U.S. flag on June 14, 1777. It was on that day that the U.S. approved the design for its first national flag. That flag now inspires communities throughout the country to show support for America and its service members.

Flag Day is also a great time to remember flag etiquette and the U.S. Flag Code. The code outlines rules and regulations for flying an American flag. If you fly the U.S. flag at your facility, showcasing it with reliable flagpole lighting is essential—not just for appearance, but for legal and symbolic reasons. You won’t be doing it justice if you use an outdated, low-output, or poorly positioned light fixture.

Proper flagpole lighting solutions not only enhance the flag itself but also beautify the surrounding property. A well-lit flag reinforces professionalism, safety, and pride in your commercial or institutional space. Below, we’ll outline how to light a flagpole correctly and avoid the most common mistakes.

Flag Lighting Rules and Guidelines

According to the U.S. Flag Code, American flags must have “proper illumination” if they are flown at night. This means the flag must be lit in a way that allows it to be recognizable in darkness, using a dedicated light source positioned for adequate visibility.

While the code states the flag should ideally only be displayed from sunrise to sunset, many commercial properties, government buildings, and schools display flags 24/7. In those cases, the flag must be well-lit using commercial-grade lighting fixtures that meet flag illumination standards.

Proper American flag illumination ensures both compliance and a dignified appearance. It also shows respect for the symbol and its meaning, especially in civic, corporate, and educational settings.

Proper lighting not only fulfills flag etiquette—it also boosts curb appeal, enhances site safety, and communicates professionalism to employees, customers, and visitors alike. Whether your flagpole stands in front of a corporate headquarters, school campus, or municipal building, well-executed lighting reinforces your brand’s respect for national symbols and attention to detail.

How to Light a Flagpole

Lighting your flag correctly depends on several factors, including flag size, pole height, fixture placement, and beam spread. Always consult the fixture manufacturer for specific guidelines, especially when using commercial LED spotlights or floodlights.

Here are general rules of thumb:

• Do not mount fixtures on the pole itself—use ground-mounted or inground lights.

• Inground fixtures should be set back from the pole one-third to one-half the length of the flag.

• Floodlights may be placed further—up to one full pole length away—to distribute light evenly.

• Aim the light at the finial (ball) at the top of the pole for upward beam coverage.

• Use three fixtures for full 360° illumination, especially for larger flags, to avoid shadows and ensure visibility from all angles.

For best results, commercial LED flagpole lighting should provide at least 300 lumens per fixture, depending on flag size and environmental lighting. Be mindful of beam angle, wattage, and field-to-beam ratio to achieve the right intensity and coverage.

Avoid using solar lights, which typically lack the brightness and reliability needed for proper U.S. flag lighting. Instead, opt for commercial-grade LED floodlights or spotlights that provide consistent, weather-resistant performance year-round.

Flag Light Fixture Options

Lighting the flag with respect and reverence involves using the best-quality lighting products available. Set yourself up for success with the proper products to light the flagpole appropriately.

• Manufacturer RAB offers a 78-watt LED spotlight which is not only powerful, but it can also illuminate the flagpole properly due to its high lumen output and concentrated narrow beam distribution. In fact, this spotlight can illuminate objects up to 80 feet away should your property need to light a flag that is far away.
• The HS LED 26 NA spotlight by RAB is perfect for flag lighting, with spot lighting for over 40 feet away, a 100,000-hour life, and availability in four colors.

Contact Us

Flying and lighting the American flag is a meaningful display of patriotism and pride. Whether you manage a commercial complex, public park, or school district, Bay Lighting can help you design and implement proper flag lighting that is both compliant and attractive.

Proper lighting not only fulfills flag etiquette—it also boosts curb appeal, enhances site safety, and communicates professionalism to employees, customers, and visitors alike. Displaying the flag is an honor that should be planned and properly executed. Commercial managers can show their patriotism and support for their local communities and country at-large by taking the time to light the American flag appropriately. Bay Lighting can help you determine what you need to light a flagpole at your facility, as well as where the spotlights need to be placed to allow for proper illumination. Contact Bay Lighting today at 301-858-9494 or fill out our online contact form and a representative will reach out to you as soon as possible.