As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, a group of homeowners in San Marcos, California, are engaged in a battle with their homeowners association (HOA) over the right to fly the American flag. The Ambiance Owners Association has threatened to fine residents who refuse to remove the flags, citing a violation of the association’s flag policy.
The Dispute
The dispute began when another resident attempted to fly a San Diego Padres flag, prompting the HOA to revisit its flag rules. Amy and Christopher Cooke, who have flown the American flag outside their home for over 20 years, received a violation notice from the HOA in May 2026. The notice directed them to remove the flag mount within 15 days or face enforcement action.
The Cookes have refused to comply, arguing that the HOA has failed to explain why it considers their garage door frame to be common area rather than exclusive-use common area under the association’s governing documents. The couple has spent nearly two years researching federal and California law, gathering HOA records, and preparing for a potential legal battle.
Support from Legal Advocates
Legal advocates have come to the support of the Cookes, arguing that California law is clear on the matter. “While homeowners associations may adopt reasonable rules governing the manner, placement, or safety of flag displays, they cannot prohibit homeowners from flying the American flag on their own property,” said Courtney Corbello, counsel at the Center for American Liberty.
The controversy has also attracted attention from political figures, with California gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton urging residents to ignore the HOA’s demands and display even more American flags in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
