Order of precedence for flags — Quick Reference

This is a reference tool on the order of precedence of flags. The order of precedence is under the authority of the Department of Canadian Heritage. It must be respected by all Federal departments and institutions and can serve as a guideline for individuals and private institutions and companies.

On this page

• The order of precedence for flags in Canada
• The order of precedence for provincial and territorial flags
• Along a wall
• Flanking an entrance
• “V” display for visual effect

Alternate format

Order of precedence for flags — quick reference [PDF version - 536 KB]

The order of precedence for flags in Canada

1. The National Flag of Canada;^{Note A}
2. The flags of other sovereign nations, in alphabetical order;
3. The flags of the provinces of Canada, in order in which they joined Confederation;
4. The flags of the territories of Canada, in order in which they joined Confederation;
5. The flags of municipalities/cities;
6. The flags and banners of organizations;^{Note B}
7. Historical flags.

The order of precedence for provincial and territorial flags

The order of precedence for the flying of the provincial flags is according to the date of entry of the province into Confederation, by population at the time of entry. The three Territories are displayed in order of creation and follow those of the provinces.

1. Canada
2. Ontario
3. Quebec
4. Nova Scotia
5. New Brunswick
6. Manitoba
7. British Columbia
8. Prince Edward Island
9. Saskatchewan
10. Alberta
11. Newfoundland and Labrador
12. Northwest Territories
13. Yukon
14. Nunavut

Along a wall

Flags displayed along a wall start with the National Flag on the left, in the place of honour, followed by the provinces, in order of precedence, followed by the territories. If desired, another National Flag may be placed at the end.

Flanking an entrance

Flags displayed flanking an entrance start with the National Flag on the left, in the place of honour, followed by the provinces, in order of precedence, followed by the territories. The order alternates sides, starting from the left, then right, then left and so on.

“V” display for visual effect

Flags displayed in a “V” shape start with the National Flag in the centre, in the place of honour, followed by the provinces, in order of precedence, followed by the territories. The order alternates sides, starting from the left, then right, then left and so on.