North Dakota State Flag Size Guide
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What Size North Dakota Flag Should You Fly?
Built for the Bakken, the Badlands, and the Open Plains
North Dakota is widely recognized as one of the windiest states in the Union. From the constant gusts across the Red River Valley to the high-velocity "Prairie Winds" of the western plains, displaying the North Dakota flag is a unique challenge. In our Aberdeen, SD facility—just across the border—we understand exactly what it takes for a flag to survive the Peace Garden State’s climate.
Selecting the correct size for your North Dakota flag is not just an aesthetic choice; it is a critical decision to manage wind load and protect your hardware. This guide provides the expert specifications required for homes, ranches, oilfield sites, and municipal buildings across North Dakota.
Quick Reference: North Dakota Flag Sizing Chart
For a proportional and safe display, follow the 1:4 ratio—the length of the flag should be roughly 25% of the total height of the flagpole.
| Application | Flag Size | Flagpole Height |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Wall-Mount | 3' x 5' | 5' - 6' Outrigger Pole |
| Suburban In-ground | 3' x 5' | 15' - 20' Pole |
| Farm, Ranch, or Bakken Site | 4' x 6' | 25' Heavy-Duty Pole |
| Commercial / Municipal | 5' x 8' | 30' - 35' Commercial Pole |
| Monumental Displays | 6' x 10' + | 40' + Internal Halyard Pole |
North Dakota Weather Zones: Material Science
The intricate design of the North Dakota flag—featuring the bald eagle with an olive branch and arrows—requires a material that holds detail while resisting extreme temperature fluctuations.
1. The Red River Valley (Fargo & Grand Forks)
Frequent moisture and high winds mean your flag needs to dry quickly to avoid "ice-weight." 200-Denier Nylon is the best choice here. It is moisture-resistant and light enough to catch the subtle breezes typical of the valley while remaining durable enough for winter storms.
2. The Central Plains & Missouri River (Bismarck & Minot)
This region experiences intense UV exposure. Our flags are treated with SolarMax® UV inhibitors to prevent the deep blue field from fading. For open-field displays, consider the 3'x5' Nylon for its superior "fly-ability."
3. Western ND & The Bakken (Williston & Dickinson)
The highest sustained wind speeds in the state occur here. For oilfield sites or ranches in the Badlands, 2-Ply Spun Polyester is mandatory. This "armored" fabric is specifically engineered to handle the mechanical stress of constant 20mph+ winds without immediate fraying.
If you’re deciding between fabrics, understanding how long North Dakota State flags last outdoors can help you choose the right material for your environment.
Troubleshooting: North Dakota Flag Challenges
Problem: The flag freezes to the pole in winter.
Solution: This is common during "Ice Fog" or sleet events. Never try to force the halyard if it’s frozen. Apply a small amount of non-stick silicone spray to your swivel snaps and halyard rope before the first freeze to prevent moisture adhesion.
Problem: The fly-end hem is "shredding" every 2 months.
Solution: This is often due to oversizing. A 4'x6' flag on a 20' pole in North Dakota creates too much "whip" force. Downgrade to a 3'x5' to reduce the speed of the fly-end snap, which will significantly extend the life of the fabric.
Problem: The eagle emblem is peeling or cracking.
Solution: This occurs with cheap, screen-printed imports. Our North Dakota flags use acid-dye penetration, where the color is locked into the fibers, ensuring the design remains supple and vibrant even in -30°F temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size flag is best for a North Dakota farm or ranch?
A: For most rural properties with a 25-foot pole, a 4' x 6' flag provides the best visibility across long distances. However, if the pole is in an exceptionally windy, unsheltered spot, a 3' x 5' Polyester flag is more durable.
Q: Can the North Dakota flag stay out 24/7?
A: Yes, provided it is properly illuminated at night. However, in North Dakota, we recommend lowering the flag during Blizzard Warnings or High Wind Advisories to prevent structural damage to the flagpole itself.
Q: How do I retire a worn-out North Dakota flag?
A: Worn flags should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. Many North Dakota VFW and American Legion posts (like those in Fargo or Bismarck) offer bins for respectful flag collection and retirement ceremonies.
Anatomy of our North Dakota State Flags
Every flag we produce for our North Dakota customers is reinforced for high-wind performance:
- Reinforced Fly-Ends: Four rows of lock-stitching prevent premature fraying in prairie winds.
- Industrial Headers: Heavy-duty canvas headers designed to resist tearing at the grommet points.
- Brass Grommets: Solid brass hardware that won't rust or corrode in harsh winter environments.
- Color Fidelity: Deep, rich blues and golds that meet official state specifications.
Equip Your Property with the Best
From the valley to the oilfields, Tidmore Flags provides North Dakota's most durable displays.
Technical & State References:
- North Dakota Secretary of State: Official State Flag Symbols
- National Weather Service Bismarck: Wind & UV Index for Central ND
- FMAA: Certified American-Made Flag Standards
