Types of flagpoles in Norway – an overview

Flagpoles differ less in appearance than in how the flag is attached and raised. Which type suits depends on which flag or pennant is to fly, how often it is changed, whether the pole is accessible to others and how much wind it gets. Under section 5 of the flag regulation, the state’s flag is flown on a pole on the roof, from the side of the building or on a free-standing pole, and the same three positions recur among private owners.

The main types

Pole with external halyard

The classic Norwegian flagpole: a line runs over a pulley at the top and is secured on a cleat at the bottom. The flag is attached to the line with hooks or toggles and raised. The design is simple and easy to maintain, and lowering the flag to half-mast is straightforward. The drawbacks are that the line can slap against the pole in the wind, and that others can take the flag down. Many hang the pennant on the same line on days when the flag is not up.

Pole with internal halyard

Here the line runs inside the pole and is operated through a hatch that can be locked. The flag is protected against theft and vandalism, and the rattling of the line largely disappears. That is why this type is common in public spaces and at businesses. It can matter to neighbours too, since a line slapping against the pole can be heard a long way at night.

Tilting pole

A tilting pole is hinged at the base or in a foundation with a tilting joint, so that it can be laid down. This makes it possible to change the line, pulley or finial from the ground, and to lower the pole before a storm. Tall poles and poles on exposed sites often have this feature.

Telescopic pole

Telescopic poles consist of several tubes that slide into each other, and usually have no halyard. The flag or pennant is attached to rings that move up as the pole is extended. They are often set into a ground sleeve and are easy to take down in winter. On a telescopic pole without a halyard, the flag cannot be lowered to half-mast.

Balcony, wall and roof pole

Where there is no room for a free-standing pole, the flag hangs on an angled pole on the balcony or the house wall. In housing cooperatives and owners’ associations, statutes and house rules can matter for what is mounted on the façade. Roof poles are common on public buildings and older apartment blocks.

Flag installations

At town halls, hotels and businesses, several poles often stand together. According to Sarpsborg municipality, several flagpoles in one place, possibly combined with a structure or foundation, can require a permit after a specific assessment. More in the guide to flagpole installation, and on the order of the flags in the guide to flag protocol.

Materials and height

Glass fibre and aluminium are the most common materials in Norway, and wood is still found. More in the guide to flagpole materials. Common heights are in the guide to flagpole heights, and how halyard, pulley and cleat work in the guide to flagpole mechanics.