Disposal of an Unserviceable Georgia State Flag

The Georgia Code does not outline what to do when a state flag can no longer be displayed because of damage or deterioration. The Secretary of State of Georgia recommends that the owner of the unserviceable state flag dispose of it in the same way stipulated by the U.S. Code for an unserviceable national flag. The U.S. Code concerning disposal:

The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning. (Title 4, Chapter 1)

For guidance on proper disposal, the American Legion is a valuable resource. The American Legion was “incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness.” One aspect of their mission is to advocate for proper flag use. The provide resources concerning flag use and disposal here. The American Legion has developed a ceremony for such disposals that a flag owner could use to respectfully dispose of a flag. Many American Legion posts may also be willing to take in unserviceable flags and dispose of them. The same website also provides the location of American Legion posts that may collect unserviceable flags.