I agree with other comments. I do think, if the rest of your app is going to be quite notable, that there is no harm in applying, but the lack of FL is going to be a mark against you. I think the rest of your transcript will be closely scrutinized and your teacher recs will need to be outstanding. There is no way you can ensure that they will be.
One reason why colleges like to see FL on a student’s transcript is because FL is very challenging, especially if you end up taking the recommended three/four years. High grades in FL can show a desirable level of rigor, ability and work ethic. I imagine AO’s will be looking for a lot of rigor in the rest of your transcript because they will want to be assured that you’re capable of doing the work should they admit you.
Edit: Colleges won’t automatically reject your app, but when they “recommend” that students take a certain number of high school course, they actually mean it’s pretty much required. BUT maybe you’re a student who has other issues that prevented you from doing the recommended courses. Maybe your school offered no higher level course, or maybe your family obligations meant you had no room in your schedule to take such courses, or maybe you have an educational exemption due to a documented learning disability. Hope that clarifies things.