LINCOLN COUNTY, N.C. -- Lincoln County has had a Nativity on its court square for many years, but when it was missing this year many citizens called the county leaders who they thought were responsible for displaying it. 

• Residents thought the county was behind displaying the nativity
• Turns out a private citizen has been doing it for decades
• The county says anyone can apply for a permit for free

In fact, it was a private citizen. Alan Hoyle had gone through all the trouble for 20 years to get a permit, build the manger, and install it. County leaders say any organization or religion is free to apply for a permit. 

“As long as the event that comes in does not present a life safety issue for pedestrians or traffic, it's typically approved. I can't remember any in the last four to five years that’s been denied,” Lincoln County manager Kelly Atkins said.

It’s free to apply for a permit. The manger scene was finally installed by Hoyle again this year after someone offered to help him.