OK, from what I have learned about upper mast yards (those above the mail lower yard)
If sails are attached even if furled for high winds, the yards are hauled up high.
If sails are off as when in port for long term the yards are lowered.
I have see a few where furled sails are on lowered masts, but normally that is seen as step just before removing sails from yards.
Others may have more precise explanation, but this is what I have learned when I asked a similar question a month ago.