American Flag Etiquette: Understanding Sunset Flag Protocol

The national flag should not always be taken down in the evening at sunset. There are no federal laws or regulations that require the American flag to be taken down at sunset. However, there are some guidelines and recommendations for flying the flag that suggest taking it down at sunset if it is not illuminated. According to the United States Flag Code, the flag should be flown from sunrise to sunset, but it may be displayed at night only if it is properly illuminated.