In a recent decision, the FCC adopted new rules for AM station proofs of performance that make the process much simpler. We wrote about this proposal when it was advanced, here. The order adopted a week ago allows stations installing new series fed AM directional antennas to avoid the time-consuming and expensive process of
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Tower Owners – Tell the FCC About Changes in Ownership
By David Oxenford on
Posted in FCC Fines, Tower Issues
A recent decision of the FCC emphasizes that tower owners must remember to change the tower registration for any communications towers after a change in ownership, or risk a fine. In the recent decision, the FCC canceled a $3000 fine that was imposed after an FCC inspection when it appeared a change in the ownership had…
Fines for Tower Violations Remind Broadcasters to Mind FCC Rules
By David Oxenford on
Posted in FCC Fines, Tower Issues
The FCC last week considered two requests for reconsideration of fines issued to broadcasters for violations of FCC rules relating to their broadcast towers. While the FCC reduced one fine because of the licensee’s inability to pay the amount originally specified, both broadcasters will have to make payments to the Commission because of their failures to meet the FCC’s rules regarding the ownership of broadcast towers. These cases remind broadcasters of their obligations to meet the Commission’s tower rules, and should cause all broadcasters to check their compliance.
In the first case, the FCC reduced the fine of a licensee who had failed to fence its AM station’s tower, but only because the licensee proved that it could not pay a higher fine. But a $500 fine was still imposed as the owner had no fence around a series-fed AM tower. The FCC pointed out that its rules require that any AM tower that has the potential for an RF radiation hazard at the base of the tower must be fenced. This station had violated that rule.Continue Reading Fines for Tower Violations Remind Broadcasters to Mind FCC Rules