Effective Date for Relaxation of FM Translator Siting Rule

As we previously reported here, the Federal Communications Commission relaxed its transmitter site location rule for FM translators that rebroadcast AM stations (cross-service fill-in translators). The FCC has announced that the rule change will take effect on April 10, 2017.

Beginning on that date, licensees of cross-service fill-in translators can file modification applications that take advantage of the relaxed rule. The new rule allows the rebroadcasting FM translator to be located anywhere within: (a) the AM station’s 2 mV/m daytime service contour; or (b) a 25-mile radius centered at the AM station’s transmitter site.

If you have any questions about the new rule or would like to file a modification application for a cross-service fill-in translator, please contact any attorney in our office.

Categories: Media