Are there rules for making flags?

The Rules of Flag Making

When creating a flag, there are guidelines in design (vexillology) and legal rules regarding national symbols.

Vexillological Rules (Design)

The study of flags is called vexillology. Vexillologists follow specific design rules to ensure flags are recognizable. This includes keeping designs simple, using 2-3 standard colors, avoiding text, and ensuring the design looks good from both sides (as flags fly in reverse on the back).

Legal Rules (National Flags)

If you are manufacturing a national flag, such as the Canadian flag, you must adhere to strict government proportions and color codes. For Canada, the flag must have a 2:1 ratio (twice as long as it is wide), and the red must be a specific pantone shade. Furthermore, it is illegal to print commercial logos or text over the National Flag.

Commercial Rules

For custom commercial flags, there are no federal laws dictating what you can print. The "rules" are largely determined by your local municipality's sign bylaws, which dictate the size and placement of the flags you make.