Residents of a San Marcos, California, townhouse community are facing a June 30 homeowners association hearing after being ordered to remove American flags from outside their homes or risk $100 fines.
The dispute involves homeowners in the Ambiance townhouse community in San Diego County, where Amy and Chris Cooke and their neighbor, Terri Collins, say the Ambiance Owners’ Association told them their flags violate community rules. The case comes days before July 4, 2026, when the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The association has cited rules against flags, signs, or banners placed in common areas or extending into them. The homeowners argue their flags have been displayed for years and are protected under state and federal law.
Homeowners ordered to hearing.
Amy Cooke said her family’s American flag has been displayed outside their home for more than 20 years. She now faces a June 30 HOA hearing and a possible $100 fine.
Cooke said the flag is attached to the garage door frame. The HOA notice said the display violates a rule governing common-area property, which restricts flags, signs, and banners…