Transporting a flagpole in France: loads and the Highway Code

A flagpole is long, sometimes heavy, and fits badly in an ordinary car. Depending on its length, it travels in several sections, on a roof rack, on a trailer or by carrier. The Highway Code (Code de la route) sets the rules on loads and on the length that may overhang the vehicle.

What the Highway Code says

• Securing (article R. 312-19): every useful precaution is taken so that the load cannot cause damage or danger. A load that overhangs or may overhang the outline of the vehicle through swaying is firmly secured, and long items are secured to each other and to the vehicle so that they do not swing out sideways. A breach is punishable by a third-class fine.
• Rear overhang (article R. 312-21): at the rear, the load of a vehicle or trailer must not extend more than 3 metres beyond the end of the vehicle or its trailer. A breach is punishable by a fourth-class fine.
• Width (article R. 312-20): the width of the load must nowhere exceed 2.55 metres.

A load overhanging at the rear is also marked with the devices provided for by the rules on vehicle lighting and signalling.

Common solutions

• Pole in several sections: many aluminium and fibreglass poles are delivered in two or three push-fit sections, which fit on a roof rack or in a van.
• Trailer: a flatbed or pipe trailer can carry a longer pole, within the permitted overhang.
• Delivery by carrier: one-piece poles of 8 to 12 metres are generally delivered by a carrier, sometimes with installation included.
• Telescopic pole: folded, it measures a fraction of its height and fits in a car boot.

Handling on site

A 6-metre aluminium pole is often carried by two people. Beyond that, lifting and setting the pole in its sleeve is done by several people or with lifting equipment, taking account of nearby overhead power lines. According to Service Public, works within 5 metres of an overhead power line (3 metres for low voltage) may be subject to a DT-DICT. More on this is in the guide to flagpole installation.

Flag and accessories

The flag, the halyard and the small parts travel separately, folded and dry. A wet flag left folded for a long time can go mouldy or run. The guide to flagpole accessories presents them.