According to the U.S. flag code, no flag may fly higher than a U.S. flag. What is the one place in this country where another flag is legally permitted to fly higher than the U.S. flag?

While the United States Flag Code dictates that no other flag should be flown higher than the American flag on U.S. soil, there is a notable exception. This exception is found at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. The key to this exception lies in the unique status of the land on which the UN building stands. Although physically located within the United States, the grounds of the UN Headquarters are considered international territory. This special designation means that U.S. law, including the Flag Code, does not apply within this specific area.

The United Nations has its own flag code, which stipulates that the UN flag can be displayed in a position of superior prominence. At the UN Headquarters, the flags of all member nations are flown in alphabetical order, and the UN flag holds the position of honor. This practice is a reflection of the organization's international and independent nature. The land for the headquarters was donated, and a treaty agreement with the U.S. government established its status as an international zone, complete with its own security force and post office.

This unique arrangement allows the United Nations to operate as a global entity, independent of the laws of its host country. The U.S. Flag Code itself acknowledges this special case, containing a provision that exempts the UN Headquarters from the rule that the U.S. flag must be in the position of superior prominence. Therefore, the display of the United Nations flag in a higher position is not only permitted but is a symbol of the international cooperation that the organization represents.