What is the timeline for going on the air once I have obtained my construction permit and completed the construction of my LPFM station?

After obtaining your construction permit and completing the construction of your broadcasting facility, you must adhere to specific regulatory procedures before going on the air. Here’s a general overview of the key steps:

1. Construction Completion: Ensure that all construction work for your broadcasting facility is completed in accordance with the specifications outlined in your construction permit.
2. Testing: Conduct necessary testing and technical inspections to confirm that your facility meets all regulatory and technical requirements. This may include equipment tests, antenna system checks, and ensuring compliance with transmitter power and frequency parameters.
3. Program Test Authority (PTA): Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for Program Test Authority (PTA). PTA allows you to perform tests, experiments, and broadcasts to fine-tune your station’s operation before obtaining a full license. You must file an application for PTA with the FCC, and upon approval, you can begin testing.
4. License Application: Prepare and submit a license application to the FCC. This application demonstrates that your station complies with all relevant rules and regulations, including construction requirements, technical standards, and frequency coordination.
5. FCC Review: The FCC will review your license application, which may take some time. Ensure that you have submitted all required documentation and fees.
6. Grant of License: Once the FCC approves your license application, you will receive a grant of license. This authorizes you to operate your station legally.
7. Commence Broadcasting: With the grant of license in hand, you are now authorized to commence broadcasting. Ensure that you operate within the parameters specified in your license, including frequency, power, and coverage area.
8. Ongoing Compliance: Continue to operate your station in full compliance with FCC rules and regulations. This includes regularly renewing your license, adhering to technical standards, and meeting all reporting requirements.

To begin broadcasting once you have your construction permit, follow these steps:

1. Obtain a Call Sign: Visit the FCC’s Call Sign Reservation System to review available call signs and reserve one for your station. Once your call sign request is accepted, you can proceed.
2. Commence Program Test Operations: Unless there are special conditions on your construction permit (which is uncommon), you can begin program test operations without waiting for FCC approval. Notify the FCC of your program test operations, and you don’t need to wait for approval before starting regular programming.
3. Automatic Program Test Authority: Under automatic program test authority, you can run regular programming from the start. However, remember to file FCC Form 319 within ten days to inform the FCC that your station is operational. Failing to do so can result in your construction permit lapsing, and you’ll lose your authority to operate the station.
4. Equipment Testing Rules: If you are not prepared to commence program testing, you can operate under equipment testing rules. This allows you to operate the transmitter without actual programming. You may use tones, dead carriers, and voice IDs. You should identify the station at the beginning of testing, once per hour (or more frequently) at the top of each hour, and at the end of the test session. Notify the FCC by postal mail that your station will be operating in this manner.
5. Time Share Agreement: If your station is part of a time share agreement, equipment and program testing should be limited to the time slots authorized in the agreement.
6. Notification to the FCC: Send your notifications to the FCC via postal mail, either to the Washington, DC, or Capitol Heights, MD address, depending on the service used (e.g., UPS, FedEx, DHL). No specific form is required for test notifications. Ensure that your notification includes your call letters, Facility ID number, and the application reference number of the construction permit (e.g., BMPL-20121321ABC). The letter should state that the station has commenced equipment or program test operations in accordance with §73.1610 (for equipment tests) or §73.1620 (for program tests) of the Rules.

   Postal mail to the FCC (including Express Mail) should be sent to: Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary Federal Communications Commission Office of the Secretary 445 12th Street, SW Washington, DC 20554

It’s crucial to note that while the program test letter is necessary, it doesn’t replace the need to file FCC Form 319. Form 319 must be filed before your construction permit expires.

By following these steps and keeping the FCC informed of your test operations, you can smoothly transition from construction to broadcasting.

The specific timing for each of these steps can vary, and it’s essential to stay in close communication with the FCC throughout the process. Additionally, be aware of any specific requirements or deadlines associated with your construction permit and license. Ensuring full compliance with regulatory procedures is crucial for a smooth transition from construction to broadcasting.