LPTV and Translator Station Displacement Filing Window Will Open April 10 to May 15

The FCC has announced a filing window for low-power TV stations, TV translator stations, and analog-to-digital replacement translators that were displaced by the Broadcast Incentive Auction and repacking process to request new channels and locations. Eligible displaced stations may file from April 10, 2018 to May 15, 2018. A displaced station is eligible to file if it is both: (1) “operating,” which means the station was licensed, or had filed an application for a license to cover, as of April 13, 2017; and (2) “displaced,” which means the station must have been: (i) subject to displacement by a repacked TV station as a result of the incentive auction and repacking process; (ii) be operating on frequencies repurposed for use by a 600 MHz band wireless licensee; or (iii) be operating on the 600 MHz guard bands.

The FCC has provided a channel study that identifies locations and channels where the displaced stations will likely be unable to propose displacement facilities due to the presence of other operations. Eligible stations may only apply for a channel that continues to be allocated to broadcast TV service and may not apply for a channel that is assigned to 600 MHz band use. The FCC will host a webinar on February 28, 2018 at 1:00 PM to review the channel study data and respond to questions.

If you have any questions regarding filing a construction permit application in this window or eligibility to file, please contact any attorney in our office.