What Are Advertising Flags
and Why Do They Work?
Advertising flags are tall printed fabric flags on a pole, set in the ground or on a base. They work because they move. Motion catches the eye of drivers and pedestrians in a way a static sign doesn't, which is why you see rows of them along San Jose's commercial corridors, in car lots, and outside new leasing offices. A row of three to five in front of a storefront is one of the fastest ways to get passing traffic to notice you.
One thing to know before you order. In San José's sign code, a "flag" means a governmental emblem (§ 23.02.200). Advertising flags, along with pennants and vertical banners, fall under the definition of a banner (§ 23.02.080). Temporary signs are generally exempt from the sign permit (§ 23.02.1310), but not from the limits. An ordinary promotional temporary sign is allowed up to 20 square feet per occupancy frontage, for up to 30 consecutive days, and no more than three times a year (§ 23.04.610). Flags on movable bases can also raise portable sign questions. We check your count, size, and dates against the code before you put flags up, so a promotion doesn't turn into a violation.
We print on polyester fabric using dye-sublimation, so color holds through sun and wind. Feather flags run 9 to 18 ft, teardrop flags 7 to 13.5 ft, and rectangle flags 8.5 to 15 ft. Bases for soil, hard surfaces, and indoor or outdoor weighting are available. Flags pair well with a branded event tent or a row of real estate signs.
