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Using the image of the american flag are there patent laws?

Are there patent laws using the image of the american flag on greeting cards or stationary items?

Public Comments

1. No. Just like the statue of liberty, white house and other monuments, it is considered to be public property of the united states and it's citizens and thus you do not need to get special permission to use these images. Now you know why it's always the Statue of Liberty getting creamed in movies...
2. nope
3. Lambda is correct. It is called being in the "public domain"
4. If it is your image, there are no laws saying you cant use it, but if say someone else took a picture of a flag and you want to you it, you must have their permission as it is considered a piece of art.
5. No. An image is not patented, they are copywrited or trademarked. The US flag is neither. You can use the image of the US flag in any manner you see fit as a symbol of free speech. You can burn it, paint it on a naked body, or just fly it proudly with respect. It is my personal hope that you would treat it with respect.
6. No. It would be a trademark if anything, but the US Flag cannot be trademarked, its ineligible for federal registration.