Proper Disposal of American Flags
June 25, 2026: With the historic America 250 celebrations officially underway, our neighborhoods are beautifully filled with the Stars and Stripes. But as the season passes, many outdoor flags will inevitably become worn, torn, or faded by New England’s weather. When an American flag is no longer fit for display, what should you do with it?
The most important rule is to keep American flags out of your curbside bins. Putting a flag in the household trash is considered disrespectful, and putting it in your blue recycling bin can actually cause dangerous tangles in mechanical sorting equipment at processing facilities.
What the U.S. Flag Code Says
According to the federal U.S. Flag Code, when a flag becomes unserviceable or faded, it should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. Because backyard burning isn’t safe or permitted in many neighborhoods, civic and veterans organizations step in to host official, respectful flag retirement ceremonies every year.
Where to Drop Off Flags in Southeastern Connecticut
Instead of using your curbside bins, you can hand your weathered flags over to local organizations that will ensure they receive a proper retirement. Local drop-off options include:
- Veterans Organizations: Almost all local VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) Halls and American Legion Posts across our region have dedicated drop-boxes outside their buildings specifically for flag collection.
- Civic Groups: Many local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops collect unserviceable flags as part of their community service and leadership projects.
- Municipal Sites: Many town halls, police stations, and transfer stations host official flag retirement drop-boxes on-site.
- SCRRRA Office: If you aren’t sure where to go, you can bring old flags directly to our office at 7 Hurlbutt Road in Gales Ferry.
Let’s celebrate our nation’s 250th while keeping our local waste stream clean and honoring our national symbol from start to finish.
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