Flag sizes in Sweden – matching the flag to the flagpole

A flag of the right size in relation to the pole looks better, puts less strain on the pole and stays distinct even at half-mast. Riksarkivet gives a simple rule of thumb: the flag’s length is about one quarter of the flagpole’s height. Here are the tables for both flag and pennant. The dimensions for a particular height are also shown in the flag size calculator.

The rule of thumb

• Flag length = pole height ÷ 4. A twelve-metre pole suits a flag about three metres long, and a ten-metre pole a flag 2.5 metres long.
• Flag height = length × 10/16. This follows from the statutory proportions of the rectangular flag.
• Very tall poles: the flag’s size can be reduced by up to one sixth in relation to the pole.
• Pennant length: between one third and one half of the pole’s height.

Table: flag size by pole height

The standard sizes below are common in the shops and close to the rule of thumb. Dimensions are given as length × height.

When the rule of thumb falls between two sizes, many choose the smaller one in places exposed to a lot of wind and the larger one where the pole stands sheltered and is seen from far away.

Table: pennant length by pole height

According to Riksarkivet, the pennant’s blue field is at the top, and the pennant may stay up around the clock. More about the pennant in the guide to flag types.

The flag’s statutory proportions

The Act on the Flag of Sweden sets out exactly how the flag is proportioned. The rectangular flag’s height relates to its length as 10 to 16. The inner fields have the ratio 4 to 5 and the outer fields 4 to 9, and the cross arms are half as wide as the fields are high. That gives the parts 5 + 2 + 9 along the length and 4 + 2 + 4 along the height. Flags from reputable manufacturers follow these dimensions and the colours set out in Ordinance (1983:826). More about the colours in the guide to flag symbolism.

Wall flags and small flags

Wall and balcony flags are considerably smaller, often around one metre long, and sit on short poles. Here it is the length of the wall pole and the distance to the wall that decide, since the flag needs to hang freely without reaching the ground or hitting the façade.

Why size matters

• Appearance: a flag that is too small looks meagre high up, while one that is too large looks heavy and can reach far down the pole.
• Half-mast: with the right size it is clear that the flag sits at two thirds of the height, see half-mast.
• Load: a larger flag means a greater wind load on the pole and foundation. It is worth bearing in mind that many manufacturers state a maximum flag size, which matters particularly in exposed places. More in the guide to flagpole safety.