What I was trying to get at is there are times that you have to compromise. And in some situations, you have to look CLOSELY at the rules and stay within the SPECIFICS of what the rules say. If it says No visible antennas, then you build an antenna system that is not visible. If that means calling a contractor to put up new vinyl soffit and fascia and hid an HF dipole in it, then that's what you do.
You would actually be hard pressed to find a CC&R written that specified no RF transmitting devices over 2 watts anywhere about the property.
It's just going to say, no visible antennas, no towers, no this or that. So you work within the boundaries of the rules. And IF you get called on the carpet on it, you say that the rules clearly state X.... and I was within the scope of the rules.
And there is NO reason that if you can get permission, and a written variance to install a flag pole that you shouldn't take up the yard, lay ground radials and put a matching network at the base of the pole driving it. If you can't see it, it's not their concern. And if the question is raised, it's a flag pole. The fact you are connecting to it for other reasons isn't relevant. If you can walk out and fly a flag from it, it's still a flag pole. The fact you are using it as an antenna is a secondary operation and not outside to scope of the variance... Unless the variance specifically says you CAN'T use the flagpole for secondary uses, such as an antenna, then legally, you should be fine. It might take an argument in a court room with a lawyer, but once the argument is done, it's done.
Is this going to have the same ability to talk like I can? Of course not. I am at the highest point in the county before I go up another 240 feet. I am less than 10 miles Southeast of the center of Ohio and I can talk from the roof (20feet AGL) to repeaters in three of the four major cities in Ohio. And from the tower I can get into Toledo as well. Is a compromise antenna going to do that? Of course not. But you also don't have two electric bills, two TAX bills, and a federal regulation requiring a flashing light on the peak of your roof, that if it goes out and you don't inform the correct people, you can be fined $4000 A DAY for that light being burnt out. So even with having a monster tower, there is compromise in having it. And although the HOA can't seize my house over a violation, the gubment can sure fine the crap put of me.