Norwegian flag size calculator: which flag suits the pole?

The flag size calculator shows which size of Norwegian flag and pennant the rule of thumb from Norwegian flag makers gives for a given pole height. It shows both the nearest common standard size and the exact measurement by the rule.

The calculator

How the calculator works

The calculator is based on the rule of thumb given by Flaggfabrikken and other Norwegian makers, and on the proportions in the Flag Act:

1. The flag’s length is the pole’s height divided by three. A 9-metre pole gives a flag 300 centimetres long.
2. The flag’s height is the length multiplied by 16/22, because under section 1 of the Flag Act the flag’s width relates to its length as 16 to 22.
3. Standard size: the calculator shows the largest common length that is not longer than one third of the pole, as Flaggfabrikken describes the maker going down to the nearest size. Common lengths are 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 275, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500 and 600 centimetres.
4. Range: the calculator shows the length at one quarter and one third of the pole’s height. According to Flaggfabrikken, anything within this range fits.
5. Pennant: according to the makers, the pennant is about one third of the pole’s height or a little longer.

The calculator runs in the browser and sends no data anywhere.

The pole’s height

The calculator uses the pole’s height above ground, from the ground to the finial. The part set in the foundation or ground sleeve is not counted. The height is often stated in the installation instructions or on the receipt. Norwegian makers often link the pole’s height to the house: a widespread rule of thumb is that one third of the pole is above the roof ridge.

The rule of thumb is a guideline

• Between two sizes: Flaggfabrikken writes that the maker generally goes down to the nearest size when one third does not hit a standard size, and the calculator does the same. Others choose the larger one, which Flaggfabrikken writes is perfectly possible, while pointing to the wind load.
• Exposed sites: on the coast and in the mountains the wind load is greater, and many then choose a smaller flag or take it down in strong wind.
• The maker’s limit: many flagpoles are designed for a specific maximum flag size, and that information comes from the maker.
• Pole close to a tall building or trees: a smaller flag or a shorter pennant does not strike the façade or tangle in branches as easily.

More on flag sizes

Tables for all common pole heights are in the guide to flag sizes. The guide to flagpole heights covers common heights and municipal rules, and the guide to half-mast describes where the flag hangs in mourning.