The proper way to dispose of an American flag, according to the U.S. Flag Code, is to do so in a dignified and respectful manner when the flag is no longer fit for display. The preferred method is burning the flag in a respectful ceremony, ensuring the flag is properly folded beforehand and completely burned to ashes, which are then buried
. Other acceptable methods include:
- Dropping off the flag at designated flag disposal boxes often found at local government offices, police stations, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts, or American Legion locations. These organizations typically hold formal flag retirement ceremonies, especially on Flag Day (June 14)
- Burying the flag in a dignified wooden box after folding it properly, followed by a moment of silence or respectful words. The flag cloth should not touch the ground or dirt directly
- Recycling the flag , especially for synthetic or nylon flags that may emit toxins when burned. Some flag manufacturers or textile recycling programs accept old flags to repurpose the material, and programs like Stars for Our Troops remove embroidered stars to send to military personnel as tokens of respect
It is important not to throw the flag in the trash, as it is a symbol of the country and should be treated with honor
. In summary, the proper ways to dispose of an American flag are:
- Burning it respectfully in a ceremony
- Dropping it off at an official flag disposal location for ceremonial retirement
- Burying it respectfully in a box
- Recycling it through appropriate programs
All methods should be carried out with reverence and dignity
