> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://launchdarkly-preview.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Deleting flags

> This topic explains how to permanently delete flags that are already archived.

> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](/llms.txt). For the full documentation snapshot, see [llms-full.txt](/llms-full.txt).

## Overview

This topic explains how to permanently delete flags that are already archived.

Deleting a flag removes it from all environments and deletes its targeting rules. If you are not sure whether to remove a flag, archive it instead. To learn more, read [Archiving flags](/home/flags/archive).

## Delete archived flags

After you archive a flag, you can delete it when you no longer need it.

When you delete a flag, LaunchDarkly removes its targeting rules. If the flag is requested again, the fallback value defined in code is returned for all contexts. Before you delete a flag, remove any references to it from your application code.

<Note title="Deleted flags are gone forever">
  You cannot restore a deleted flag. Make sure your team no longer needs the flag before you delete it.
</Note>

Many teams archive flags first, then delete them after cleanup is complete. Archiving keeps a flag available for reference, while deleting permanently removes it from LaunchDarkly and the REST API.

To delete an archived flag:

1. Navigate to the **Flags** list.
2. Click **Filters**. In the "Lifecycle" section, click **Archived**. The archived flags list appears.
3. Click a flag name to open the flag you wish to delete.
4. Click the **three-dot** overflow menu in the right sidebar.
5. Select **Delete**. The "Delete this flag?" dialog appears.
6. Enter the flag's name or key in the **Confirm** field.
7. Click **Delete**.

The flag is permanently deleted.

<Card icon="link">
  You can also use the REST API: [Delete feature flag](/api-reference/feature-flags/delete-feature-flag)
</Card>