If flags are to be hoisted on only some of the available flagpoles, then they should be hoisted on flagpoles next to each other, not leaving any empty flagpoles between them. This applies above all to displays of the European and federal (institutions) flag, which are intended to express the close relationship between the two.

Exceptions should be limited to special situations, for example at the Federal Chancellery, when various foreign flags must be hoisted in short succession on the centre of three flagpoles. Flags should always be hoisted on the flagpoles in the superior position, i.e. on the left of an observer facing the building, so that empty flagpoles will be on the right.