Flag Raising and Half Masting

The Town of Essex recognizes that flags are important symbols that increase public awareness of special events, activities and historical commemorations, and as such is committed to displaying flags on Town sites in a consistent and appropriate manner.

In 2021, Council adopted a new policy and protocol which dictates the process by which individuals and community groups may request the raising or half masting of flags at Town of Essex facility.

Community Flag requests will be considered to celebrate an achievement; or to recognize a charitable or non-profit organziation that has achieved national or international distinction or made a significant contribution to the community; or an organization that has helped to enhance the Town of Essex in a positive manner. Community flags to be flown by special request will take the place of the Municipal Flag located in front of the municipal offices located at 33 Talbot Street South, Essex, Ontario. For further details set out in in this policy, please contact our office for a copy.

This Flag Raising and Half-Masting Request application is the first step towards having your Community Flag flown at Town of Essex facilities.

For questions, please contact the Director, Community Services/Deputy CAO, Doug Sweet at dsweet@essex.ca or 519-776-7336 ext 1130.

Please note:

No flags of commercial, religious or political organizations shall be permitted;
No flags of a group or organization whose undertakings or philosophy are contrary to Town of Essex policies or by-laws, or espouse hatred, violence, discrimination, prejudice, or racism shall be permitted;
An organization's flag shall be flown no more than once per calendar year;
A flag shall be flown for a period of up to one week, or for the duration of the associated event, whichever is less;
Organizations shall be required to submit requests for their organization's flag to fly on an annual basis, a minimum of six weeks prior to the requested date, and shall be in the form of this formalized application;
Requests for the use of the community flag pole will be considered on a first come, first served basis;
Community Flags shall only be raised and lowered on those business days and hours that the Town Hall is open; and
Approved submissions will be required to drop off and pick up their event flag within 1 week of event date directly to the Director, Community Services and or authorized agent as directed.

The full Flag Raising and Half-Masting Policy and Procedure can be read online.

Subscribe to this Page