Flags

The U.S. flag, our national symbol, should not be placed in recycling or regular rubbish. When a flag is so tattered that it no longer fits to serve as a symbol of the United States, it should be destroyed in a dignified manner.

Flags are constructed of different fabric materials. Some are cotton while others are nylon, rayon, plastic film, or mixed materials. Before choosing a retirement method (cutting, burning, incineration, or burial), consider the type of fabric your flag is made from and the environmental effects of disposal.

Guidance From Other Government Agencies

For more information about the care and treatment of the U.S. flag, read information on the United States Flag Code. 

The U.S. Department of Defense guides the proper retirement and disposal of the U.S. flag. Read here.

See details about the care and destruction of the State of Ohio flag.

Community Collection Points

The American Legion, VFW Posts, Scouts BSA, National Sojourners, and other organizations regularly conduct flag retirement ceremonies, often on Flag Day (June 14). Locally, American Legion Posts and other clubs collect flags for proper disposal. Find a location.

You can also mail your tattered flag to a flag disposal organization, such as Flag Keepers.
 

Some communities have flag drop boxes for residents. To find collection information for your community, use this website’s geolocation services, or choose your community from the green ‘Select a City’ drop-down at the top of the page and click 'See Details.' 

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Looking to recycle, donate, or dispose of other items? Use the dark blue 'What Do I Do With?' search bar at the top of every page of this website. Allow location services or use the city drop-down to find opportunities in your local area.