Eric Smith says he’s always been fascinated by the Gadsden flag. On a yellow background, the flag features a rattlesnake poised to strike and the statement: “Don’t Tread on Me.”

“This is actually a flag that has strong Revolutionary War and history to it,” Smith said, referring to the flag, which he says he has displayed along with the American flag in front of his Thornton home for the past year.

Last week, he received a letter from the East York Villas Homeowner’s Association stating: “Tea Party flags are not permitted. Please Remove.” The letter threatened a fine of up to $100 per month if the flag is not removed.

The flag has also had connections to the U.S. military. But in recent years, the Gadsden flag has been a fixture at Tea Party rallies, making some think of it as a political symbol for that party.

“I don’t like it being referred to as a Tea Party flag,” Smith said. “I’m actually a registered Republican.”

Read the rest of this report and watch the video interview at 9News.com.