The FCC is relaxing some of its rules for licensees and applicants impacted by Hurricane Helene. Those seeking Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) for a replacement or temporary tower don’t need to complete the environmental notification process if their facility meets the criteria for exception under the Commission’s National Environmental Policy Act rules.
But if the facilities don’t meet the exception criteria, the agency may waive or postpone the environmental notification process at the applicant’s request and the applicant makes clear the proposed tower will be used to restore service in an area affected by Hurricane Helene. To seek a waiver or postpone the environmental notification process, complete the waiver question in the application submitted to the ASR system.
For non-tower-related help, the FCC Wireless Telecommunications Bureau and Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau are extending certain deadlines for licensees and applicants impacted by Hurricane Helene from September 23, to October 23. This includes Wireless Radio Service whether commercial, private, or public safety applications, notifications, and reports pursuant to Parts 1 (Subpart F only), 13, 20, 22, 24, 27, 30, 74 (excluding Subparts G, and L), 80, 87, 90, 95, 96, 97, or 101 of the Commission’s rules.
The extensions include filings regarding certain minor license modifications, license renewals, and notifications of construction. Licensees and applicants making delayed filings must include a certification that the deadlines could not be met within the time otherwise provided in the Commission’s rules because of Hurricane Helene.
The agency is waiving Section 1.931(a) of the Commission’s rules through October 23, to allow wireless radio services licensees and broadband radio services licensees to ask for Special Temporary Authority or emergency waivers by telephone to Commission staff rather than electronically. The FCC’s Operation Center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (202) 418-1122.
By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief
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