Upon direction from the Governor, the Department of Administration is responsible for issuing notifications when circumstances call for the lowering of the North Carolina and/or United States flags at state-owned facilities.
Through our Facility Management division, we lower and raise flags as needed on facilities in the Downtown State Government Complex, and even sell state flags online. It also is our privilege to assist countless citizens and organizations that seek advice on the topic, including whether they may lower the flag on private property as a tribute without the Governor’s authorization. (Yes, they may.)
To assist those who wish to demonstrate their patriotism but are uncertain of formal flag etiquette, DOA today released a new brochure that covers related state and federal laws and policies. While its guidance is specific to state-owned facilities, it also may be used by citizens who wish to make informed decisions about flying flags on private property.
The Department of Administration also manages the North Carolina Flag Alert listserv, which provides notices to more than 1,500 registered users when the Governor’s orders flags to be lowered on state facilities.
This service is free and open to anyone wishing to register at http://lists.ncmail.net/mailman/listinfo/flag.alerts.