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I do not and will not live in a covenant controlled community. That said, when David Renner purchased his townhouse, he was given a copy of the CCRs from the HOA. In fact he had to sign off on them per his real estate contract. In my opinion, since he is not displaying the current American flag, but a replica of a much older flag, he does not have a leg to stand on. Which may be why he went to the local TV news. He wants to try this case in the court of public opinion rather than a court of law.

I really have little sympathy for people that either do not read or try to ignore contracts after they agree, in writing to the terms. And that is what CCRs are, a contract amongst the homeowners in the community. The proper way to change them is to bring up the changes at the HOA meetings and VOTE on them. Just like changing laws. Only easier.

Federal law is superior to any HOA regulation, signed or not.

The Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005 says, in part:

A condominium association, cooperative association, or residential real estate management association may not adopt or enforce any policy, or enter into any agreement, that would restrict or prevent a member of the association from displaying the flag of the United States on residential property within the association with respect to which such member has a separate ownership interest or a right to exclusive possession or use.

As an aside, no American flag is ever considered obsolete.