CommLaw Group IoT Attorney Ron Quirk, published Part Two of a two-part article in RCR Wireless News, detailing federal efforts to expedite siting of small cells, and related local zoning law matters. Rapid small cell deployment is critical for widespread implementation of the Internet of Things. Part One was published on July 11, 2016: Feds expanding safe havens for small cell deployment but the devil is in the details
State and local laws for general (non-Section 6409(a)) RF equipment installation often have onerous provisions that can substantially delay the siting process. Pre-grant public hearings, for example, are not uncommon. Many states and localities also require applicants to provide detailed information concerning “viability,” which means compliance with, among other things: local development policies, public notice requirements, building codes, noise ordinances, safety regulations, labeling processes, lighting requirements, fees, and historic preservation and environmental laws. Moreover, many states and localities have no shot clocks; those that do usually have review periods that are substantially longer than the federal 60-day cycle. Some states and localities subject siting applications to multiple layers of review by different government agencies.
It is critical that any business that plans to install small cells, DAS, or indeed any type of RF transmitter work with an experienced consultant or attorney who knows the rules and procedures, works well with local officials and understands how to expedite the administrative processes. Today, the “internet of things” industry has a lot of players. As the industry matures, many will drop by the wayside. Those providers who deploy first may be the final ones standing.
To read Part Two, click here: Small Cell Regulations – Section 6409(a) and the MOBILE NOW Act