A useful flag-status answer needs more than a graphic. It needs an applicable instruction, a reliable source, and an honest explanation of when the information was checked.
We Begin With Official Sources
We use the government sources identified for each jurisdiction, together with reviewed rules for established observances. Competitor websites and social posts can help identify a question to investigate, but they do not replace the underlying authority. Each published order links to its primary reference.
We Check What the Order Actually Covers
We identify the issuing authority, flags, places or facilities, beginning instruction, ending instruction, and any stated exceptions. A state-flag-only notice is kept separate from a direction for the U.S. flag. Local orders appear only where that coverage has been established.
We Show What We Know and What We Do Not
A status can be verified, overdue for review, unavailable, or not yet covered. We do not assume full staff when a source fails. Known national information can remain visible while state verification is unavailable, with that distinction explained.
We Keep Changes With the Notice
Extensions, withdrawals, and material corrections are recorded on the relevant order page. Ended orders remain available as historical records. Before a raising reminder is issued, applicable tracked orders must be evaluated together.
Automated Assistance Has a Defined Role
Software and AI may assist with collecting, organizing, and drafting information. Publication follows the review process identified for the record: a named reviewer compares each draft with the official source and approves it before it appears on this site, in widgets, or in email. The actual reviewer and review time are shown where applicable. We do not treat an automated draft as an official order.
Coverage and Timing
Each jurisdiction page lists its monitored scope and latest successful check. This service does not promise immediate discovery of every notice or complete coverage of every local authority. See Service Status for known source problems.
Official Sources · Service Status · Corrections Policy
Found Something We Should Review?
Send the official URL, location, and the detail you believe needs correction. We investigate before changing status.