Camping Company CEO Risks Jail For Flying U.S. Flag Over Store

[jimnyc]

What is their reasoning for not allowing a large flag? If it's because the paperwork had a smaller size - why not edit it? Going to jail someone over that amount? And over our flag? :rolleyes:

---

Camping Company CEO Risks Jail For Flying U.S. Flag Over Store

Marcus Lemonis is prepared to go to jail over an American flag his company is flying over one of his stores.

"We have flown this flag for a long time," Lemonis said. "As I told the city…it's not coming down under any circumstance."

Lemonis is chief operating officer of Gander RV. He's been flying a huge flag -- 40 feet by 80 feet, or 3,200 square feet, the size of a fairly large house -- over a store in Statesville, N.C.

But city officials say the flag is too big. They filed a lawsuit May 7 against Holiday Kamper Co. -– which is the parent company of the store formerly known as Camping World. If Lemonis doesn't take action within 30 days, he could be jailed.

Statesville City Attorney Leah Messick said in the filing that the company applied for a permit to fly a 40 foot by 25 foot flag but instead raised the bigger one. "In June, 2018, Gander RV (formerly known as Camping World) filed an application with the Statesville Planning Department to display a 40x25-foot flag on its property. The permit was approved, but when the flag was raised two months later, it was determined the company was flying a 40x80-foot flag, which is prohibited by City ordinance," the filing says.

Rest - https://www.dailywire.com/news/47638/camping-company-ceo-risks-jail-flying-us-flag-over-joseph-curl

[STTAB]

Sorry, but if you got a permit to fly a certain size flag and then put up a bigger one that you didn't have a permit for I don't really care that it is a US flag we are talking about.

City ordinances exist for a reason.

[jimnyc]

Sorry, but if you got a permit to fly a certain size flag and then put up a bigger one that you didn't have a permit for I don't really care that it is a US flag we are talking about.


City ordinances exist for a reason.

That's why I think they need to edit, and pay any difference in fee if necessary. But no change allowed and jail instead?

[Kathianne]

That's why I think they need to edit, and pay any difference in fee if necessary. But no change allowed and jail instead?

I have to agree with STABB, the permit was for an acceptable size and the company decided to go larger. The permit is an agreement-the city has the right to whatever penalties they have. If it's ok to break it for a flag, then it's ok to break other permits too.

England lost a lot of colonies by benign neglect regarding laws. Wait too long and the 'subjects' believe they are not enforceable.

If they don't like the local ordinances, they are free to move somewhere else, more to their liking. That is the price the local government pays for their rules.

Much like hoa's, many folks don't want to live there, but if you DO, then it's up to you to follow the rules.

[STTAB]

That's why I think they need to edit, and pay any difference in fee if necessary. But no change allowed and jail instead?

I'm not sure I agree with jail, BUT this owner has made it clear, he isn't taking the flag down.

Jail would probably be more effective at changing his tune than fines.

[jimnyc]

I have to agree with STABB, the permit was for an acceptable size and the company decided to go larger. The permit is an agreement-the city has the right to whatever penalties they have. If it's ok to break it for a flag, then it's ok to break other permits too.

England lost a lot of colonies by benign neglect regarding laws. Wait too long and the 'subjects' believe they are not enforceable.

If they don't like the local ordinances, they are free to move somewhere else, more to their liking. That is the price the local government pays for their rules.

Much like hoa's, many folks don't want to live there, but if you DO, then it's up to you to follow the rules.

Agreed with all of that - hence me stating I think it's best to re-do the permit and apply for one not that larger. It doesn't state city limitations, just that they need approval. And yeps, he IS wrong, no doubt. But the best resolution for all is to re-apply for the proper height, and work towards that manner, instead of jailing someone over it. If the guy refuses to re-apply and/or pay more for a larger approval, and also refuses to take it down, then he's 100% wrong. But it reads to me that he applied for the wrong size that was approved - not that the city has an official ordinance of a specific size limitation. If the former is the case - that's why I would say to fix things all around. IF it's something written in code, then he's again wrong. But I wouldn't see why one would need to 'apply' for a permit if it was written in ordinance. So perhaps more info is needed? I dunno, maybe I'm just reading it wrong.


I'm not sure I agree with jail, BUT this owner has made it clear, he isn't taking the flag down.

Jail would probably be more effective at changing his tune than fines.

Or perhaps he should re-apply for the larger flag, or get a flag custom made to the approved dimensions. I applaud his stance, but depends on a few factors, IMO. But if he purposely hid a larger size, then he's wrong. If he's just being obtuse, he's wrong. If it's refusal all the way around, then he's wrong there too. If not, and they 'can' approve a larger one, then go that route and pay the fines happily. If resolvable, go that route instead of jailing someone over a flag. But if the local ordinance states nothing larger than 40'25, then he's wrong there too. If not, simply re-apply.

[jimnyc]

He's 100% wrong according to this article, that states the ordinance DOES in fact have a specific size. So he's guilty as charged. Apparently he was even denied, and did so anyway?

But even some there admit that things are "antiquated" there. So he should pay up and resize. AND maybe fight to have this ordinance changed, as some in the council may now agree, or more. But that doesn't make his actions correct.

--

Statesville Council reviews ordinance restricting flag size, takes no action

The Statesville City Council on Monday heard a presentation about the possibility of amending city ordinances to allow businesses to fly larger American flags than are currently allowed.

During their annual retreat, Statesville’s Planning Director David Currier reviewed the current ordinances. The presentation was the result of a request by Councilmen John Staford.

“I think we could open our sign ordinance up,” Currier told the council, explaining that restrictions could be eased in areas other than those just pertaining to flags.

These areas included: the change of ordinances on monument signs, modifications for wall signs, allowances for temporary signs, and open interpretation to billboards regulations.

City Council was open to reviewing changes in the sign ordinance, but did not take any action during Monday’s annual retreat.

Staford first brought up the restriction on flags as a result of a denial of a 2014 request by Camping World of Statesville to fly a 40-foot-by-80-foot flag (3,200 square feet) atop a 130-foot-tall pole.

Statesville’s current ordinance sets a maximum height of flag poles at 40 feet and limits the flag size to 8-feet-by-12-feet (96 square feet). Camping World’s request involved a 90-foot height difference and a 3,104-square-foot flag material difference.

During Monday’s meeting, Currier acknowledged that Statesville’s current flag ordinance is “probably antiquated” and could be given some review.

https://svlfreenews.com/news/effort-remove-american-flag-citys-sign-ordinance-fails

[Elessar]

This a tough one.

I am totally against prohibiting an American Flag.

However, if he is in violation of an agreed-upon ordinance, then he should comply -
especially if it is within city limits.

[High_Plains_Drifter]

Weird ya need a PERMIT to fly an American flag, in America... no matter what size it is.

[icansayit]

WHY, in the United States of America....does anyone even need to consider being able to fly the flag?

We have cheapened our standards too far, considering somebody had the snowflake emotions that required permission to even fly the flag.

It's even more saddening, and downright stupid that WE HAVE TO BE TALKING ABOUT SUCH THINGS, for any reason.

Imagine soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen/women coming home from duty, and being told YOU MUST GET PERMISSION TO SALUTE YOUR OWN FLAG???


I hope others are as sick of this CRAP as I am, and I hope that CEO has a great lawyer...as he sits in a cell waiting for SOCIALISTS to rescue him.

[STTAB]

WHY, in the United States of America....does anyone even need to consider being able to fly the flag?

We have cheapened our standards too far, considering somebody had the snowflake emotions that required permission to even fly the flag.

It's even more saddening, and downright stupid that WE HAVE TO BE TALKING ABOUT SUCH THINGS, for any reason.

Imagine soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen/women coming home from duty, and being told YOU MUST GET PERMISSION TO SALUTE YOUR OWN FLAG???


I hope others are as sick of this CRAP as I am, and I hope that CEO has a great lawyer...as he sits in a cell waiting for SOCIALISTS to rescue him.

Because you would have an entirely different opinion if someone were flying a 40' x 20' ISIS flag sir. This is the point, one must have PRINCIPLES that hold up for all situations.

[icansayit]

Because you would have an entirely different opinion if someone were flying a 40' x 20' ISIS flag sir. This is the point, one must have PRINCIPLES that hold up for all situations.


I Live in the United States of America. Our national Flag is the representation of our Nation, to which I, and you have served.

There should be no question, in any True, Honorable, American about that flag FLYING in the United States of America.

And HELL YES....I would have a different outlook, and opinion if someone was permitted to fly an ISIS flag in this nation. It goes beyond Freedom Of Speech IMO, and more so, goes to common sense, civility, and being intelligent enough to know how flying any other flag...in the USA, goes against the Honor, Freedom, and Liberty ALL AMERICANS should feel, instead of trying to test the feelings, or harm common sense just for the HELL OF IT, and because THEY CAN.

Our Enemies easily USE our Constitution, and Laws against us as Americans. Personally. That is a slap in the face of EVERY AMERICAN.

[Kathianne]

Communities have the right to set standards for building heights, locations, etc. If one doesn't like the restrictions or feels the municipality has too many restrictions, go elsewhere. A huge flag flying on the side of the interstate is not an uncommon site, one sees them all the time for fireworks companies. However, that same flag flown on a suburban street may be considered less than optimal.

IMO, ordinances regarding such should be limited to 'your right to enjoy should be protected, up to the point where it interferes or restricts others rights to enjoy their property.'

I've seen American flags that are so large that they are distracting to drivers, usually over car sales lots. I don't think that patriotism is the main reason, attention grabbing is.

There are many levels of ordinance restrictions within the US, many that are ridiculously, (IMO), controlling; others that are so lax that there is no coherence in where businesses and residences separate. HOAs to me are the most restrictive from what I've read and seen. When they pass 'no flags' or similar amendments I feel they should be taken to court over free speech. OTOH, I agree that a municipality has the right to set standards through permits and citizens have to abide by those limitations. Otherwise move to another location.

It's not just about the flag, it's also about community.

[Elessar]

Update...town might be backing down:

https://www.foxnews.com/us/north-carola-rv-store-american-flag-rule-change

[icansayit]

Communities have the right to set standards for building heights, locations, etc. If one doesn't like the restrictions or feels the municipality has too many restrictions, go elsewhere. A huge flag flying on the side of the interstate is not an uncommon site, one sees them all the time for fireworks companies. However, that same flag flown on a suburban street may be considered less than optimal.

IMO, ordinances regarding such should be limited to 'your right to enjoy should be protected, up to the point where it interferes or restricts others rights to enjoy their property.'

I've seen American flags that are so large that they are distracting to drivers, usually over car sales lots. I don't think that patriotism is the main reason, attention grabbing is.

There are many levels of ordinance restrictions within the US, many that are ridiculously, (IMO), controlling; others that are so lax that there is no coherence in where businesses and residences separate. HOAs to me are the most restrictive from what I've read and seen. When they pass 'no flags' or similar amendments I feel they should be taken to court over free speech. OTOH, I agree that a municipality has the right to set standards through permits and citizens have to abide by those limitations. Otherwise move to another location.

It's not just about the flag, it's also about community.

However....as an American First, and as an American Citizen, and as an American Retired, U.S.Navy Veteran who pledged my life to this NATION, represented by the AMERICAN FLAG everyone seems to be trying to HIDE, or Prevent from waving.

As long as we live in this nation. Anyone who is so unsatisfied, disturbed, or insulted by the STARS & STRIPES flying in THIS NATION....Needs to find another place to live, or give up their citizenship HERE, and do as the Hollywood ELITES claim to do....and simply "LEAVE".

I gave 30 years of my life, with my family, saluting that flag every day. Anyone who dares tell me I CANNOT FLY IT...will need to take me to court.

[Kathianne]

However....as an American First, and as an American Citizen, and as an American Retired, U.S.Navy Veteran who pledged my life to this NATION, represented by the AMERICAN FLAG everyone seems to be trying to HIDE, or Prevent from waving.

As long as we live in this nation. Anyone who is so unsatisfied, disturbed, or insulted by the STARS & STRIPES flying in THIS NATION....Needs to find another place to live, or give up their citizenship HERE, and do as the Hollywood ELITES claim to do....and simply "LEAVE".

I gave 30 years of my life, with my family, saluting that flag every day. Anyone who dares tell me I CANNOT FLY IT...will need to take me to court.

I thank you for your service, as I have many times. The city DID give the man a permit for a flag larger than normal; it was the man who chose to bring on a bigger than permitted flag. Somehow I don't see how one justifies breaking the law or in this case ordinance to be represented by a flag that stands for a country of law and call that 'patriotic.'

[darin]

it's kind of a lie to say this is about "The Flag of the United States".

It's like when people say they were stopped 'just cuz they are black' - when the fact is 'they are black and were speeding in a car with stolen plates'.


This is about a shitty ordinance duly-elected officials are trying to enforce. Change the law, or comply - this is about the law. NOT the flag. Headlines and people are trying to change the topic into an issue of patriotism - when that is only being used to stir people up.

[STTAB]

I Live in the United States of America. Our national Flag is the representation of our Nation, to which I, and you have served.

There should be no question, in any True, Honorable, American about that flag FLYING in the United States of America.

And HELL YES....I would have a different outlook, and opinion if someone was permitted to fly an ISIS flag in this nation. It goes beyond Freedom Of Speech IMO, and more so, goes to common sense, civility, and being intelligent enough to know how flying any other flag...in the USA, goes against the Honor, Freedom, and Liberty ALL AMERICANS should feel, instead of trying to test the feelings, or harm common sense just for the HELL OF IT, and because THEY CAN.

Our Enemies easily USE our Constitution, and Laws against us as Americans. Personally. That is a slap in the face of EVERY AMERICAN.

You would have a different outlook because you a partisan who is willing to use the force of law against those you don't like , but don't like it when it is done to you.

[jimnyc]

Update...town might be backing down:

https://www.foxnews.com/us/north-carola-rv-store-american-flag-rule-change

Good, as they should, IMO. Update the current restrictions on the books. It's not surprising considering past comments from the council on this matter. Perhaps the correct way is to petition and/or take things to court and get things changed legally and then put your large flag up. But this accomplishes the same thing in the end, only much faster if they do it. The flag stays up, no jail time & Statesville comes out on top looking rosy for their support. A win all the way around. Seems it was the mayor of the town that is pushing for the amendment, and appears the council is ready for that change.

[Kathianne]

It's going to be very interesting now that social media is making the rules. Everyone that supports one side, is happy when they win, not so much so when they disagree.

First it was 'fake news' and 'biased tweets.' Now if it's in the interests of one's own point of view, those are good things.

[jimnyc]

It's going to be very interesting now that social media is making the rules. Everyone that supports one side, is happy when they win, not so much so when they disagree.

First it was 'fake news' and 'biased tweets.' Now if it's in the interests of one's own point of view, those are good things.

My opinion is that they more so want to amend to accommodate the flag, but also be a little more lenient in general as so many other cities are around the country. The council had discussed this change even before the issue started making the headlines, which is when the court ordered payments retroactively.

[Kathianne]

My opinion is that they more so want to amend to accommodate the flag, but also be a little more lenient in general as so many other cities are around the country. The council had discussed this change even before the issue started making the headlines, which is when the court ordered payments retroactively.


From the article posted regarding 'change,':


...

Gander originally applied for a permit in June 2018 to install a 40-foot-by-25-foot flag, which was compliant with the city code, but instead made plans to put up a larger flag, which the city had opposed, in September 2018.

...

The city’s change of heart may have come after a slew of social media support (https://www.facebook.com/campingworld/photos/a.197846710379/10156977435950380/?type=3) for the big flag being flown outside of Gander RV.
Statesville Mayor Costi Kutteh recommended amending the ordinance, which will be voted on July 15 by the city council and needs two votes to pass.
“In speaking with city council members, I believe this is the direction the majority of council would like to go at this time,” Kutteh said in a statement Wednesday (http://www.statesvillenc.net/Resident/Newsamp;Information/CityNews/tabid/111/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/6818/Mayor-Requests-Change-to-Flag-Ordinance.aspx). “Some terrible things have been said about our wonderful town and it hasn’t come from our citizens. But people from all over the country have jumped on this issue and called us names I can’t repeat. When our community’s efforts to conduct business in an orderly, lawful manner begins to hurt our businesses, then it’s time to put a stop to it.”


June, then September, now May. I went back and read the original article, not finding that the city was looking to change the ordinance or its mind on the size. They served notice on the 'being out of compliance and the impending fines to be levied. Then a 'change.org' petition grabbed the attention of some on social media, and here's the city now.

From your post with 2nd link, that was in reaction Monday to the social media brouhaha:


https://svlfreenews.com/news/effort-...rdinance-fails (https://svlfreenews.com/news/effort-remove-american-flag-citys-sign-ordinance-fails)


The Statesville City Council on Monday heard a presentation about the possibility of amending city ordinances to allow businesses to fly larger American flags than are currently allowed.

During their annual retreat, Statesville’s Planning Director David Currier reviewed the current ordinances. The presentation was the result of a request by Councilmen John Staford.

“I think we could open our sign ordinance up,” Currier told the council, explaining that restrictions could be eased in areas other than those just pertaining to flags.

These areas included: the change of ordinances on monument signs, modifications for wall signs, allowances for temporary signs, and open interpretation to billboards regulations.

City Council was open to reviewing changes in the sign ordinance, but did not take any action during Monday’s annual retreat.

...

Then the latest link provided:


...

The city’s change of heart may have come after a slew of social media support (https://www.facebook.com/campingworld/photos/a.197846710379/10156977435950380/?type=3) for the big flag being flown outside of Gander RV.Statesville Mayor Costi Kutteh recommended amending the ordinance, which will be voted on July 15 by the city council and needs two votes to pass.
“In speaking with city council members, I believe this is the direction the majority of council would like to go at this time,” Kutteh said in a statement Wednesday (http://www.statesvillenc.net/Resident/Newsamp;Information/CityNews/tabid/111/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/6818/Mayor-Requests-Change-to-Flag-Ordinance.aspx). “Some terrible things have been said about our wonderful town and it hasn’t come from our citizens. But people from all over the country have jumped on this issue and called us names I can’t repeat. When our community’s efforts to conduct business in an orderly, lawful manner begins to hurt our businesses, then it’s time to put a stop to it.”

...

The last bolded and larger sized is just to explain that bullying does work.

[icansayit]

You would have a different outlook because you a partisan who is willing to use the force of law against those you don't like , but don't like it when it is done to you.


They can do whatever they want to do, as long as it is legal. But, my opinion about our FLAG, and DEFENDING what it stands for WILL NEVER CHANGE.

I see nothing but hatred, ignorance, and stupidity by ANYONE living in this nation who Intentionally wants to prevent the flying of our National Flag.

If you think about this....nearly every member of our Military, and Police Forces WEAR a FLAG on their shoulder because they are in the U.S.A.

Will those people be prevented, antagonized, or told to not wear that symbol if THEY HAPPEN TO ENTER THAT Camping Company Business???

If not...what's the difference? Common sense, and Being Proud to be an American says it all.

[Kathianne]

They can do whatever they want to do, as long as it is legal. But, my opinion about our FLAG, and DEFENDING what it stands for WILL NEVER CHANGE.

I see nothing but hatred, ignorance, and stupidity by ANYONE living in this nation who Intentionally wants to prevent the flying of our National Flag.

If you think about this....nearly every member of our Military, and Police Forces WEAR a FLAG on their shoulder because they are in the U.S.A.

Will those people be prevented, antagonized, or told to not wear that symbol if THEY HAPPEN TO ENTER THAT Camping Company Business???

If not...what's the difference? Common sense, and Being Proud to be an American says it all.

You DO realize that the issue is not flying the flag, right? Indeed a permit was given for a larger size flag than normal, thus the need for the special permit. The owner-the holder of the permit-decided that he'd just go ahead with an even larger, nearly double the size. The issue is the size, NOT the flag itself.

[Tyr-Ziu Saxnot]

They can do whatever they want to do, as long as it is legal. But, my opinion about our FLAG, and DEFENDING what it stands for WILL NEVER CHANGE.

I see nothing but hatred, ignorance, and stupidity by ANYONE living in this nation who Intentionally wants to prevent the flying of our National Flag.

If you think about this....nearly every member of our Military, and Police Forces WEAR a FLAG on their shoulder because they are in the U.S.A.

Will those people be prevented, antagonized, or told to not wear that symbol if THEY HAPPEN TO ENTER THAT Camping Company Business???

If not...what's the difference? Common sense, and Being Proud to be an American says it all.

Those that say no laws are wrong are wrong themselves.
Local community can not supersede that of patriotism or else it is itself treasonous..
And some of us live by our integrity instead of by adherence to disloyalty , blindness and going along with the damn modern faithless, mindless and dishonorable fukking herd!
I will fly any damn size flag I want to and be damn any who does not like it or who defends the assholes that say I can not do so!
As they Do not get to tell me to be a fukkin disloyal piece of fukking piece of shit like they are.
Any that think they can tell me not to fly a certain size flag , please come to my property and try and see how damn fast I stomp the fukking hell out that person.
Thus they get to see, how a man (not a liberal/dem piece of shit) handles being told to be a piece shit like they are.
I dont play....

To clarify this post: This is my stand, this is my post made to this nation and the - ENTIRE-world, not to any specific member or group of member here.
It is just how I am made. Nobody gets to force me to break one of my personal principles. Key word in that truth-- is the word nobody..
As I would beat the living hell out of one of my own brothers(that I truly love) that attempted to force me to break one of my core principles.... --Tyr

[icansayit]

You DO realize that the issue is not flying the flag, right? Indeed a permit was given for a larger size flag than normal, thus the need for the special permit. The owner-the holder of the permit-decided that he'd just go ahead with an even larger, nearly double the size. The issue is the size, NOT the flag itself.

What bewilders me, is that we live in the greatest nation on Earth, and American citizens have stooped so low, as to fight over the size of a FLAG that represents ALL OF US, and WHAT WE STAND FOR.....At least....Most of us.

We live in an age now where everything must be organized, permitted, determined, and pacify the FEW who are constantly thinking up RULES they demand EVERYONE ELSE must obey....OR ELSE.

There was a time in AMERICA...at least I remember it....when nobody needed permission to say, do, or think anything that didn't harm someone else.

Guess I'm getting old, and miss the AMERICA I grew up in. Where will all of this stop? YOU CAN'T COME IN HERE BECAUSE YOU ARE TOO OLD????

[Kathianne]

I've made my points. Just one more and hopefully done. To say that those that are saying that a community should be able to set their ordinances without bullying by social media, is not unpatriotic, is right there with saying you're racists if you disagree with a black or any minority.

We may not choose to live in such a community, we may sell our property if our community becomes heavy handed with new ordinances; but the community should have the right to set them.

If there are no limits for one flag, there will be no limits for any flags-some you may disagree with. If you take away the right of the city to control size, you may find your neighbors having a street full of large flags, some you may love, others not so much. The war of the flags may not be in your community's best interest.

[icansayit]

All of this has become a useless discussion for me. Ever lived where a HOA existed? I did, and as a Veteran of 30 years. We were told "NO AMERICAN FLAGS" can be flown on any of our properties.

WE moved from there, long ago. I still can't get my arms around being an American Veteran...UNABLE, or PREVENTED from showing my Love for this country.

Call me old fashioned, but there are restrictions because TOO MANY PEOPLE claimed it was UNFAIR to fly Our Flag, and NOT THEIRS!

If anyone can't stand the heat. Get out of the kitchen.

END OF STORY.

[Elessar]

My only concern is that if it was so large to obstruct a highway or the flight path of an aircraft?
If obstructing a flight path, then It needs a red quick flashing light at the top of the pole.

That was not at all stated.

Tempest in a teapot from the bleacher section.

[Kathianne]

All of this has become a useless discussion for me. Ever lived where a HOA existed? I did, and as a Veteran of 30 years. We were told "NO AMERICAN FLAGS" can be flown on any of our properties.

WE moved from there, long ago. I still can't get my arms around being an American Veteran...UNABLE, or PREVENTED from showing my Love for this country.

Call me old fashioned, but there are restrictions because TOO MANY PEOPLE claimed it was UNFAIR to fly Our Flag, and NOT THEIRS!

If anyone can't stand the heat. Get out of the kitchen.

END OF STORY.


https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/can-your-hoa-prohibit-you-from-flying-your-favorite-flag.html


Can Your HOA Prohibit You From Flying Your Favorite Flag?



Whether it's a rainbow flag or a Halloween pumpkin, your HOA rules may validly prohibit it -- but watch out for discriminatory or uneven enforcement.



By Beth Ross (https://www.nolo.com/law-authors/beth-ross.html)

...

Can your HOA really ban you from flying a flag? The answer depends on what type of flag it is, where you live, and how you display the flag.
State and Federal Laws Protect Some Flag Displays

If the flag your HOA is prohibiting is the good old stars and stripes, the HOA is probably out of line. Your right to display the United States flag is protected by federal law. The “Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005” makes it illegal for an HOA to restrict owners from displaying a U.S. flag.

Your HOA can, however, reasonably restrict the time, place, and manner of your flag display (provided the restrictions are to protect a substantial interest of the association). For example, your HOA can ban a U.S. flag that might be a danger, such as one on a rickety flagpole over a public sidewalk. The HOA probably also has the right to prohibit a flag so large it blocks a neighbor’s views.

Check your state’s laws, also. Some states prevent HOAs from banning certain other types of flags, such as Native American flags, state flags, or officialU.S.military flags. As with federal law, however, state laws typically still give the HOA the right to reasonably regulate such things as the location and size of flags.

...

[STTAB]

It's going to be very interesting now that social media is making the rules. Everyone that supports one side, is happy when they win, not so much so when they disagree.

First it was 'fake news' and 'biased tweets.' Now if it's in the interests of one's own point of view, those are good things.

I hate that so much. Ranks right up there to me with people who are fine with restrictions on things they don't like but by God you better not attempt to restrict anything I like, rather than basing their opinion on said restrictions on whether those restrictions serve any useful purpose or not.

I'll fly halfway off topic here and use an example. Gay marriage. What fucking business does the government have telling gay people they can't get married? Yet so called conservatives hate gay marriage so they are fine with restricting it. That's the same thing we're seeing in this thread, so called conservatives hate that a government is telling someone they can't fly an American flag that is bigger than X , but those same people would go ape shit if someone flew an ISIS flag of the same size or whatever, when the reality is the only issue is "does that government have a legitimate purpose in limiting the size of a flag? If they do then the topic of the flag is irrelevant, if they don't then the topic of the flag is still irrelevant.

[jimnyc]

The amendment was written and sent over. The council will convene and vote on the 15th of this month, and are apparently already signaling as they did a long time back that they are in favor. He is supported by the state ordinances/laws, and now will be via the township. All legal across the board and everyone is happy in the end.

Old Glory wins again, as she should every single time. And now the local ordinance falls into the same line as the state laws, of which he was already compliant with. But as I said from the beginning, it's our flag, and I'm glad common sense won over and they ultimately worked together and got directly to the resolution that was wanted anyway. :clap: to Statesville!

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