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Symbols of the City of Boston

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Discover the official symbols that represent the City of Boston, and learn how they are displayed in civic life.

City flag and seal

The City Flag

The official flag of the City of Boston features Continental blue and buff, colors inspired by the uniforms of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. The flag’s proportions are five feet long by three and a half feet wide, maintaining that same ratio in all sizes.

At the center of the flag is the City Seal, enclosed by two white rings. The flag is traditionally made of silk, and the seal is either woven into the fabric or painted directly onto it.

Boston also maintains a Municipal Standard, a ceremonial version of the flag used for official occasions. The Municipal Standard includes an image of the Trimountain on the reverse side and a Continental buff fringe. The standard City Flag has no image on the back and no fringe.

The City Seal

The Boston City Seal was adopted in 1823, first appeared publicly in 1827, and was made official in 1914.

The circular design features:

  • A panoramic view of the City of Boston
  • The Latin motto “SICUT PATRIBUS, SIT DEUS NOBIS” — translated as “God be with us as He was with our fathers”
  • The inscription “BOSTONIA CONDITA AD 1630 CIVITATIS REGIMINE DONATA AD 1822”, signifying the City’s founding in 1630 and its incorporation in 1822.

An official, high-resolution version of the City Seal is available for download in the City’s  brand guidelines.

Displaying the City flag

The City Flag may be flown or carried at official events where the Mayor is present. It is also flown daily at Boston City Hall and on the Boston Common, alongside the United States flag.

Organizations and community groups may request permission from the Mayor’s Office to display or carry the flag for approved occasions.

Use of the City Flag is strictly regulated to preserve its integrity:

  • The flag may not be used for commercial purposes, advertisements, or promotions.
  • Any other use requires written approval from the Mayor.
  • Violations are subject to a $20 fine per offense.

Community organizations may also request to fly their national flag on designated days of remembrance.

United States flag

The United States flag is displayed at Boston City Hall every day, except Sundays and during severe weather. The flag is also flown at other municipal buildings on the following observances:

  • Franklin's Birthday, January 17
  • Lincoln's Birthday, February 12
  • Washington's Birthday, February 22
  • Evacuation Day, March 17
  • Patriots' Day, April 19
  • Grant's Birthday, April 27
  • Memorial Day, May 30
  • Flag Day, June 14
  • Bunker Hill Day, June 17
  • Independence Day, July 4
  • Labor Day, first Monday in September
  • Boston's Settlement Anniversary, September 17
  • Columbus Day, October 12
  • Veterans' Day, November 11, and
  • any other day the Mayor or City Council orders it.

If a flag day falls on a Sunday, the flag is displayed on the following Monday. The U.S. flag at City Hall is flown at half-staff whenever ordered by the president or governor.

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