May 22, 2025 | A Guide to Flying the U.S. Flag at Half-Mast in Minnesota: What HOA Leaders Need to Know

As leaders of Homeowners Associations (HOAs) in Minnesota, it’s essential to guide your community in maintaining proper flag etiquette, especially as we approach significant observances like Memorial Day. Flying the U.S. flag at half-mast is a solemn act that honors those who have made sacrifices for our country. This article outlines the key occasions when the flag should be flown at half-mast and provides essential tips for HOA leaders to ensure compliance and respect within your community.

Understanding Half-Mast Protocol

Half-mast (or half-staff) refers to the position of the flag when it is lowered to about halfway down the mast as a sign of mourning. It is important to recognize that this practice is reserved for specific occasions, and it should be done with respect and understanding of its significance.

Federal Guidelines

The President of the United States and the governor have the authority to order flags to be flown at half-mast. Here are the primary occasions when this is applicable.

1. Memorial Day:
– When: Last Monday in May.
– Flag Protocol: Flags should be flown at half-mast from sunrise until noon, then raised to full staff until sunset.
– Purpose: To honor military personnel who have died in service to the country.

2. Peace Officers’ Memorial Day:
– When: May 15.
– Flag Protocol: Flags should be at half-mast from sunrise to sunset.
– Purpose: To honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.

3. Patriot Day:
– When: September 11.
– Flag Protocol: Flags should be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset.
– Purpose: To commemorate the victims of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

4. National Day of Mourning:
– When: Announced by the President.
– Flag Protocol: Flags should be flown at half-mast for the duration specified by the proclamation.
– Purpose: To honor the passing of significant national figures or tragic events.

5. State-Specific Days:
– When: State governor may designate specific days for half-mast observance, often in honor of local figures or events.

You can check the flag status for Minnesota on the Governor’s Website.