The answer to this question varies depending on the specific frequency band in which the FM station with the canceled license operates.
FAQ Category: Improvements and Modifications to LPFM
Inquiries regarding the process for submitting applications for improvements, relocations, and related activities.
Is it necessary to obtain a Construction Permit if there are inaccuracies in the coordinates on the permit/license or if I plan to make a minor adjustment to the tower site location?
For full-service non-directional stations, a modification of license application can be submitted to correct geographic coordinates within a range of up to 3 seconds in latitude and/or up to 3 seconds in longitude (§73.1690(b)(2)). The actual distance allowable for adjustment varies due to the curvature of the Earth but generally falls within about 300 to 350 feet in latitude and 200 to 250 feet in longitude. However, any changes or corrections involving full-service directional antennas necessitate a construction permit.
Is it possible for the FCC to grant waivers for the minimum distance spacing requirements when a full-power station shares the same channel or the first adjacent channel?
Yes, the FCC has the authority to grant waivers for minimum distance spacing requirements even when a full-power station operates on the same channel or the first adjacent channel. These waivers are typically considered on a case-by-case basis and are subject to specific regulatory conditions and considerations. Stations seeking such waivers should carefully follow FCC procedures and provide sufficient justification for the requested waiver. The FCC evaluates these requests with the goal of ensuring efficient spectrum use while minimizing interference and protecting existing broadcasters’ rights.
The tower company is inquiring whether I plan to install a one or two bay antenna. Can you explain the distinctions between the two, and which option is generally more advantageous?
On occasion, the necessity for a 2-bay antenna arises, particularly when addressing second adjacent channel interference concerns. Within myLPFM, the [Potential Waiver] function can provide a list of antennas suitable for your proposed locatio
Is there any enhanced protection granted to full-power stations implementing hybrid HD Radio (IBOC) beyond the existing analog safeguards?
No, as long as the LPFM station complies with the minimum spacing and second-adjacent channel interference requirements outlined in §73.807, it satisfies the basic regulatory prerequisites.
Our station has recently submitted an application, and I’ve just received an “FCC Activity Report” via email. What are the necessary steps I should take in response to this report?
When your station receives an “FCC Activity Report” after submitting an application, it’s important to take the following necessary steps in response:
Is it possible for a translator that rebroadcasts an LPFM station to have a higher power output than the LPFM station it is rebroadcasting?
It’s important to note that while translators can operate at power levels exceeding 100 watts at 30 meters HAAT, these higher power levels are subject to necessary contour protections based on their specific location and channel assignment.
What is the significance of an application being marked as “superseded” on FCC databases like fccdata.org or the FCC’s official website?
When you come across an application labeled as “superseded” on fccdata.org or the FCC’s official website, it indicates that a newer application or action has replaced the previous one. In the context of FCC applications, “superseded” means that the original application is no longer active or relevant because it has been overtaken or replaced by a more recent filing or decision.
Is it within the FCC’s authority to grant waivers for minimum distance spacing requirements when considering a full-power station on the same channel or the first adjacent channel?
Yes, the FCC has the authority to grant waivers for minimum distance spacing requirements in the case of a full-power station on the same channel or the first adjacent channel. However, such waivers are typically granted under specific circumstances and require a thorough review of technical and regulatory considerations. The FCC assesses each waiver request on a case-by-case basis to ensure that it serves the public interest and does not cause undue interference to other stations or services.
Is it possible for one of the two stations currently in a time-share agreement to request a move to another available channel that is properly spaced, citing the elimination of the time-share as a means to reduce interference?
Yes, if two LPFM stations are currently operating under a time-share agreement and another channel becomes available that is properly spaced to either of the stations, one of the stations can request a move to the new channel while claiming that eliminating the time-share arrangement will “reduce interference.” However, the success of such a request will depend on several factors: