Stephens County installs flag retirement box at Historic Courthouse

Stephens County now offers a new option for residents to properly dispose of worn U.S. flags.

In partnership with the National Association of Counties, the National Flag Foundation, and Stephens County have installed a flag retirement box at the Stephens County Historical Courthouse, located at 37 West Tugalo Street, in downtown Toccoa.

According to County Clerk Beth Rider, flags should be folded respectfully before being placed in the box.

The United States Flag Code prescribes flag etiquette – everything from flying it near other flags to instructions on how to raise and lower it.

According to the code, “the flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way.”

Stephens County will be responsible for the proper disposal of the worn flags.

Rider says the flag retirement box is centrally-located and provides convenience while respecting our national symbol.

She says the County is unified in helping enable its citizens to respect our great nation while disposing of old or worn out flags.

National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase says he is pleased to provide these flag retirement boxes.

He adds that this helps residents properly dispose of worn, U.S. flags and is consistent to the National Association of Counties’ commitment to public service and community engagement.

For questions or additional information regarding the newly installed flag retirement box at the Stephens County Historical Courthouse, contact Rider by calling 706-886-9491.