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Town Flag Half-Mastings
The Town of Halton Hills lowers municipal flags to half‑mast as a mark of respect, remembrance and recognition.
This protocol outlines when and how flags are lowered to half‑mast at Town facilities and properties.
About Half‑Masting
Half‑masting is a symbolic gesture used to honour:
- Individuals of significance
- Tragic events
- Periods of mourning
The Town follows established protocols to ensure flags are lowered consistently and respectfully.
When Flags Are Lowered
Flags may be lowered to half‑mast in recognition of:
National or Provincial Direction
- Official proclamations by the Government of Canada or Province of Ontario
- National days of mourning or remembrance
- Direction from recognized authorities
Municipal Recognition
- Current or former elected officials
- Members of the Halton Hills community
- Significant local contributors or community leaders
Special Circumstances
Flags may also be lowered in response to:
- Local, national or international tragedies
- Events that significantly impact the community
- Other circumstances at the discretion of the Town
How Half‑Masting Works
When flags are lowered:
- Flags are first raised to full mast, then lowered to half‑mast
- Flags remain at half‑mast for the designated period
- At the end of the period, flags are returned to full mast
Timing and duration may vary depending on the event or directive.
Locations
Flag half‑masting is observed at designated Town facilities and locations where municipal flags are displayed.
This may include:
- Municipal buildings
- Community facilities
- Other Town‑owned properties
Requests for Half‑Masting
Requests for the Town to lower flags to half‑mast may be submitted for consideration.
Requests should include:
- Details of the individual or event
- Reason for the request
- Relevant dates
All requests are reviewed in accordance with this protocol and applicable guidelines.
Current Half-Masting & Flag Raising Notices
Regular flag-related updates for half-mastings and raisings are shared through our social media accounts whenever possible. Residents are encouraged to follow us on socials to help stay informed.
Yearly Half-Mastings
Flags at Town Hall and all municipal facilities will be flown at half-mast, from sunrise until sunset, to commemorate the following special dates or others as identified by the Government of Canada:
| Date | Occurance |
|---|---|
| January 27 | International Holocaust Remembrance Day |
| April 28 | Workers Mourning Day, Day of mourning for Persons killed or injured in the workplace |
| June 23 | National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism |
| Second Sunday in September | Fire-Fighters’ National Memorial Day |
| Last Sunday in September | Police and Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day |
| September 30 | National Day for Truth and Reconciliation |
| November 11 | Remembrance Day (When half-masting occurs at a place where remembrance is being observed, the half-masting can occur at 11:00 a.m., or according to the prescribed order of service until sunset.) |
| December 6 | National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women |
Important to Know
- Not all requests may be approved
- Decisions are made based on established criteria and consistency
- The Town follows recognized protocol and legislative guidance where applicable
Related Information
- Governance & Accountability – Policies and protocols
- Council & Committees – Municipal leadership and decision‑making
- Safe & Welcoming Halton Hills – Community values and recognition