Flagpole Height vs. Flag Size
Recommended flag sizes by flagpole mounting height and mounting style.
The National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers (NAAMM) provides criteria for determining the appropriate flag size based on the height of the flagpole. Use these tables to match the right flag to your flagpole — whether you know the pole height, the desired flag size, or both.
- If you know the flagpole height: Use this information to determine the maximum flag size suitable for the pole.
- If you know the flag size: Use this to determine the required mounting height.
This guidance is useful when selecting a new flagpole or flag and you have only one of these measurements.
In-Ground Flagpoles
Recommended flag sizes for ground set flagpoles based on mounting height. These are the most common commercial flagpole installations.
| Mounting Height | Flag Size |
|---|---|
| 15' | 3' x 5' |
| 20' | 4' x 6' |
| 25' | 5' x 8' |
| 30' | 6' x 10' |
| 35' | 6' x 10' |
| 40' | 8' x 12' |
| 45' | 8' x 12' |
| 50' | 10' x 15' |
| 60' | 12' x 18' |
| 70' | 12' x 18' |
| 80' | 15' x 25' |
Flying a flag larger than the recommended size for your pole height can overstress the pole and shorten its service life, especially in high-wind locations.
Vertical Wall Mount Flagpoles
Recommended flag sizes for vertical wall mount flagpoles. These flagpoles are mounted upright on the side of a building using fabricated brackets.
| Mounting Height | Flag Size |
|---|---|
| 12' to 15' | 4' x 6' |
| 20' to 25' | 5' x 8' |
| 30' to 35' | 6' x 10' |
| 40' to 45' | 8' x 12' |
Vertical wall mount installations should also account for building setbacks and any local restrictions on how far a pole may project from a wall.
Outrigger Wall Mount Flagpoles
Recommended flag sizes for outrigger wall mount flagpoles. These poles project outward from a building at an angle and are sized by the length of the pole rather than mounting height.
| Length | Flag Size |
|---|---|
| 8' | 3' x 5' |
| 10' to 12' | 4' x 6' |
| 13' to 16' | 5' x 8' |
| 17' to 23' | 6' x 10' |
For outrigger applications, ensure the flag clears all nearby walls, windows, and signage when fully extended in the wind.
