FCC Announces Auction of 132 FM Radio Construction Permits

The Federal Communications Commission has announced the upcoming auction of 132 construction permits for full power FM broadcast stations. The auction, named Auction 114, is scheduled to begin on February 2, 2027. The list of available construction permits includes 33 permits that were previously unsold or defaulted upon in prior auctions.

The FCC’s Public Notice requests comment on the proposed competitive bidding procedures and eligibility requirements for participation in the auction. Comments on the procedures are due June 9, 2026, and reply comments are due June 24, 2026.

The FCC proposes to use a simultaneous multiple-round auction format with anonymous bidding procedures to limit disclosure of bidder identities and bidding strategies until after the auction closes. The FCC also proposes requiring upfront payments to establish bidding eligibility, setting minimum opening bids, and imposing a 20% default payment on winning bidders that default or are disqualified.

The FCC also seeks comment on auction integrity safeguards, and procedures governing delays, suspensions, or cancellations of the auction.

Bidders without an attributable interest in any full power TV or radio broadcast station, daily newspaper or cable TV system may be eligible for a 35% bidding credit. Bidders with an attributable interest in no more than three such media outlets, none of which are in the same geographic area as the new station being bid on, may be eligible for a 25% bidding credit.

Applicants would be required to certify that they have reviewed the auction procedures and understand the requirements for obtaining an FM construction permit in the auction.

If you have questions about Auction 114 or are interested in filing comments, contact David Burns in our Media Practice Group.