Idaho State Flag Size Guide - What Size Should You Fly?

Choosing the right Idaho state flag size is the difference between a display that looks clean and respectful… and one that feels awkward, oversized, or even puts too much strain on your flagpole. Whether you’re flying the Idaho flag at a Boise home, a Coeur d’Alene lake property, an Idaho Falls business, a Twin Falls farm, or in front of a school or government building, the flag and pole need to be in proportion — especially in a state known for strong winds, high elevations, snowy winters, and wide-open plains.

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It’s easy to assume “bigger is better,” but an oversized flag can create too much wind load, wear out faster in Idaho’s gusty conditions, and even bend or damage a smaller pole. This guide breaks down which Idaho flag sizes work best for house-mount poles, residential in-ground flagpoles, and commercial sites — plus which materials perform best in Idaho’s mix of mountain weather and prairie wind.

Quick Answer — Standard Idaho Flag Sizes

Short on time? Here are the most common Idaho flag sizes and where they’re typically used throughout the Gem State:

For a national overview, see our Flag Size Chart & Buying Guide.

Choosing the Right Idaho Flag Size for Your Location

House-Mount (Wall-Mounted) Idaho Flags

For most Idaho homes — from Boise and Meridian neighborhoods to mountain towns like McCall, Sandpoint, and Driggs — the classic setup is a 3' × 5' Idaho flag on a 5'–6' house-mount pole. This provides strong visibility without overpowering one- or two-story homes.

• Standard recommendation: 3' × 5' Idaho flag on a 5'–6' pole.
• Smaller porches or cabins: Use a 2' × 3' flag.
• Clearance: Avoid contact with siding, overhangs, trees, or snow buildup.

Idaho’s strong canyon winds, Snake River Plain gusts, and mountain weather fronts can stress wall brackets, so sizing appropriately helps protect your hardware and flag.

Residential In-Ground Flagpoles

Use the general rule for any Idaho property: flag length ≈ one-quarter of pole height.

A 3' × 5' Idaho flag looks proportionate on a standard 20' pole. For properties set back from the road — especially farms or mountain cabins — a 4' × 6' flag increases visibility without overwhelming the pole.

Commercial, Schools & Government Buildings in Idaho

Across Idaho — from Idaho State University and Boise State to courthouses and military sites — common commercial sizes include:

• 5' × 8' on 25'–30' poles
• 6' × 10' on 30'–35' poles
• 8' × 12' on 40' poles or higher

Idaho’s wind-prone plains and mountain gusts make wind-load ratings critical for any large flag installation.

Best Material for the Idaho Climate

Idaho’s climate combines hot summers, cold winters, high UV exposure, and strong wind. Material choice matters just as much as proper sizing.

Nylon Idaho Flags — Most Popular Everyday Choice

Nylon works beautifully for most Idaho homes because it:

• Flies well in light to moderate wind
• Dries quickly after rain or melting snow
• Holds bright, crisp colors — ideal for the dark blue field and state seal

Nylon is the best all-around option for suburban homes, city neighborhoods, or sheltered areas.

Polyester Idaho Flags — Best for Windy & Exposed Areas

Choose 2-ply polyester if you live in:

• Open plains (Nampa, Mountain Home, Twin Falls)
• High-wind corridors (Pocatello, Idaho Falls)
• Mountain ridge locations (McCall, Sun Valley)
• Large commercial or rural properties

Polyester withstands strong winds far better than nylon but requires more breeze to lift.

Idaho Flag Material Guide: Nylon vs Polyester

Cotton Idaho Flags — Indoor & Ceremonial Use

Use cotton Idaho flags for:

• Government chambers
• Schools, auditoriums, and courtrooms
• Indoor ceremonial presentation sets

Because cotton absorbs moisture and fades faster, it is not recommended for Idaho’s outdoor climate.

Browse our Idaho State Flags — Nylon, Polyester & Indoor Sets, proudly Made in the USA.

Flying the U.S. Flag with the Idaho Flag

When flying the U.S. and Idaho flags together:

• The U.S. flag always takes the position of honor.
• If sharing a pole, the Idaho flag must be the same size or smaller.
• Additional flags (military, city, tribal) fly beneath the Idaho flag.

A very common setup: 3' × 5' U.S. flag with a 3' × 5' Idaho flag on a 20' pole.

How to Care for Your Idaho Flag

Idaho weather — especially wind and UV — affects flag lifespan. A simple care routine helps extend durability.

Cleaning Nylon & Polyester Flags

• Hand-wash or gentle cycle with cold water
• Use mild detergent
• Rinse thoroughly
• Air-dry only

Protect Your Flag from Idaho Weather

• Bring flags down during high-wind advisories
• Rotate between two flags
• Trim frays early

Proper Storage

• Store flat or neatly folded
• Use a breathable container
• Keep in a cool, dry place — avoid unheated sheds during winter

For full storage etiquette, see: How to Store a Flag Respectfully.

When to Replace or Retire an Idaho Flag

Replace your Idaho flag if you notice:

• Fading on the blue field or detailed state seal
• Fraying at the fly end
• Tearing around grommets
• Thinning fabric from wind or UV exposure

Idaho VFW posts, American Legion halls, and civic groups hold flag retirement events statewide.

FAQs — Idaho Flag Size & Display

What size Idaho flag is best for a house?
A 3' × 5' Idaho flag on a 5'–6' pole is standard for most Idaho homes.

What size Idaho flag is right for a 20' pole?
A 3' × 5' flag fits a 20' pole; choose a 4' × 6' for large or set-back properties.

What material is best for Idaho’s climate?
Nylon for everyday use; 2-ply polyester for windy or exposed areas.

Can I fly the Idaho flag with the U.S. flag on one pole?
Yes — the U.S. flag must fly on top, and the Idaho flag must be equal or smaller in size.

Shop Made-in-USA Idaho Flags & Flagpoles

At Tidmore Flags, we proudly offer Made-in-USA Idaho state flags in nylon, polyester, indoor, and outdoor styles. Still need help choosing the right size? Our flag experts are here to help.