# Welcome to Swamplandia of the Free A Marion County resident has officially declared his 2-acre backyard an independent nation, separate from the United States and, more importantly, the local county zoning commission. The declaration of independence was signed on a paper plate and posted on a mailbox. The main legislative act of the new nation? The total abolition of noise ordinances, fire codes, and pants requirements. ## Diplomatic Relations with the HOA "We are currently seeking recognition from the United Nations," the homeowner stated while wearing a colonial hat and board shorts. "Until then, our embassy will be firing off mortars until 3 AM in celebration of our sovereignty." Local police noted that backyard declarations do not override state laws, but they did admire the hand-drawn passport stamps featuring an alligator holding a quill. *Satire Disclosure: This story is satirical parody. Backyards are not sovereign nations. FLORIDAMAN.AI is a parody site.*