FCC Rules on Satellite Dishes and Antennas: Questions and Answers
Q: Briefly explain the FCC Rule pertaining to satellite dishes and antennas.
A: On August 6, 1996, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted its Rule implementing Section 207 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. The Rule has been amended three times since its original adoption. The Rule preempts community association restrictions on certain antennas used to receive video programming services. Specifically covered are antennas for over-the-air reception of direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service, multichannel, multipoint distribution service (MMDS), fixed wireless signals, and television broadcast service, and the masts supporting these antennas. Not all antennas are protected by the FCC Rule. The Rule applies to DBS antennas of less than one meter in diameter, including those used to receive or transmit fixed wireless signals, MMDS antennas ("wireless cable") less than one meter in size, including those used to receive or transmit fixed wireless signals, and standard TV antennas. Community associations can still enforce restrictive covenants on other antennas (even if enforcing the covenant impairs access to the signal).
