If you live in a community governed by a homeowner’s association (HOA), you will likely have to follow rules regarding how you decorate your house. But if you want to show your patriotism with a flagpole, you may wonder if your HOA can stop you. The answer isn’t straightforward, but fortunately, this blog can help. Read on to learn if HOAs can prevent you from erecting a flagpole.
What HOAs Can Do
There are limits to what HOAs can do when you want to hang an American flag on a flagpole. Although your HOA can set limits on certain flags, they can’t prevent homeowners from hanging Old Glory, thanks to the Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005. Nor can the association prevent you from hanging flags protected by your state.
However, they can set rules on how you display it. For example, if they determine your flagpole is a safety risk to other community members, they can force you to remove it.
Investigate Your Community’s Bylaws
Now that you know how HOAs can prevent you from erecting a flagpole, you may wonder how to mount one successfully without conflicts. Before you erect the flagpole, you should do some research and take a close look at your community’s bylaws.
These documents often contain detailed rules, including specifications for flagpoles. You might find restrictions on the height and location of the flagpole to ensure they don’t obstruct views or pose dangers.
Sometimes, you must gain approval from the HOA board before installation. Submitting a detailed plan that complies with HOA regulations can make the approval process smoother.
Check the US Flag Code
Something else you can do is study the US Flag Code, which provides guidelines on properly displaying the American flag. While it doesn’t carry the force of law for private citizens, your HOA may enforce some of its practices, such as how you should illuminate your flag if you display it at night. Knowing the Flag Code can foster respectful dialogue with your HOA about your rights and responsibilities concerning flag display.
By understanding your HOA’s rules, you can ensure that you will create a patriotic display that will satisfy everyone. Liberty Flagpoles offers products that will help you show your pride properly, including our one-piece aluminum flagpoles. We offer sturdy poles in various sizes so that you can meet your community’s regulations.
