FCC eyes cramming 5G and satellites into microwave spectrum chaos
Published Date: 12/3/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants to make it easier and faster to use certain high-frequency bands for both 5G networks and satellite services. They’re asking for feedback on new rules that could help more companies share these airwaves without stepping on each other’s toes. If you’re involved in wireless or satellite tech, get ready to weigh in by early 2026—these changes could speed up approvals and boost innovation!
Analyzed Economic Effects
8 provisions identified: 8 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Raising or Removing Per-County/PEA Caps
The FCC is considering raising or eliminating the current numerical caps that limit earth station locations to three per county and (for 37.5–40 GHz receive) 15 earth stations per Partial Economic Area (PEA). The NPRM asks whether those caps and related population-coverage limits and infrastructure exclusions (e.g., protection for Interstates, major event venues, passenger railroads) should be modified or removed to facilitate more intensive FSS use of the UMFUS bands.
Automated 'Light-Licensing' Database
The FCC is proposing a “light-licensing” approach where nationwide, non-site earth station license holders would register individual sites in a common automated database. The database would run an automated interference check that returns a green, yellow, or red light (with possible use of an interference-to-noise (I/N) threshold such as -6 dB) to speed deconfliction between satellite earth stations and terrestrial base stations in the 24, 28, upper 37, 39, 47, and 50 GHz bands.
Voluntary UMFUS–FSS Commercial Deals
The FCC seeks comment on allowing UMFUS (terrestrial) licensees to voluntarily negotiate agreements with Fixed-Satellite Service (FSS) operators that would let those earth stations operate without complying with Sec. 25.136 protection criteria. The NPRM also asks whether an UMFUS licensee that enters such an agreement could count that agreement toward its UMFUS buildout requirements (for example, under Sec. 30.104), provided the FSS operator licenses and deploys some number of earth stations by the buildout deadline.
Unprotected Operations During Coordination
The FCC seeks comment on allowing earth stations to begin non-interfering, unprotected operations while good-faith coordination with UMFUS licensees is ongoing, and on whether applicants should only need to provide evidence of completed coordination upon Commission request. The NPRM contrasts permitting operation only after completed coordination versus allowing operations during the pendency of coordination.
Nationwide Non-site Licenses With Site Registration
The FCC is considering permitting applicants to obtain a nationwide, non-site earth station license and then register individual sites upon coordination in a centralized database, instead of full Sec. 25.136 showings at initial application. This is proposed as a way to reduce first-in-time processing delays and the backlog caused by complex waiver requests.
Earth-Station 'Slot' Transfer Market
The FCC asks whether to attach transferable “slots” to earth station licenses (representing opportunities to operate under a county cap) and permit slot exchanges or transfers so slot-holders can transfer the right to operate to other parties without transferring the license. The NPRM seeks comment on transfer rules, whether exchanges should be notified to the Commission, and construction or operation milestone requirements tied to exchanges.
Expanded Collocation Rules (Antenna Farms)
The FCC asks whether it should expand the definition of collocation so multiple earth stations sited within the same antenna farm (even if several hundred meters apart) count as a single collocated site for the three-per-county limit. The NPRM also asks whether the March 2025 Space Bureau guidance on partial PFD contour overlap should be adopted as binding.
Automated I/N Interference Thresholds
The FCC seeks comment on whether the automated interference check should apply an interference-to-noise (I/N) protection threshold to trigger proactive mitigation or coordination, asking specifically if -6 dB (used in 70/80/90 GHz databases) is an appropriate threshold for UMFUS bands or whether another value is preferable.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20192, [WC Docket Nos. 25-208, 25-209; FCC 26-19; FR ID 370342] Reducing Barriers to Network Improvements and Service Changes, Accelerating Network Modernization
The FCC is making it easier and faster for phone and internet companies to upgrade old networks to new, faster technology. These changes affect companies that provide phone and internet services and will start on October 15, 2026. This update cuts red tape and helps bring better service to customers sooner, without extra costs slowing things down.
2026-20157, Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The FCC is asking the public and small businesses to help reduce paperwork by commenting on a new information collection plan. If you have fewer than 25 employees, your input is especially welcome! Comments are due by November 2, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to shape how the FCC collects info and possibly save time and money.
2026-20158, Information Collections Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking the public and businesses to review and comment on some paperwork they collect to make sure it’s useful and not too much of a hassle. They want to reduce the burden, especially for small businesses, and are updating forms related to international telecom authorizations. Comments are due by November 30, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in and help shape the process!
2026-20039, Television Broadcasting Services Norwell, Massachusetts
The FCC is switching TV channel 36 to channel 10 for WWDP in Norwell, Massachusetts, so the station can keep broadcasting without interruptions. RNN Boston License Co., the station’s owner, asked for this change and will quickly apply to operate on the new channel. This update takes effect on September 30, 2026, ensuring viewers keep enjoying their favorite shows smoothly.
2026-20038, Television Broadcasting Services Savannah, Georgia
Georgia Public Broadcasting wants to switch its Savannah TV station WVAN-TV from VHF channel 8 to UHF channel 18 to improve signal quality and help viewers get better access to local programs. This change won’t cause interference or loss of service and aims to boost your TV experience. Comments on this proposal are open until October 30, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!
2026-20005, Renewal of the Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee
The FCC is renewing the Consumer Protection and Accessibility Advisory Committee (CPAAC) for two more years because it helps protect consumers and improve access for people with disabilities. This committee advises on new communication technologies and their impact, making sure everyone benefits. No big budget changes were mentioned, so it’s business as usual with a focus on keeping consumer voices heard.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-21785, The Sunset Rule
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission wants to add expiration dates to some of its rules to keep things fresh and efficient, following a new government order. This change affects anyone involved with nuclear regulations and means some rules might end unless renewed. You’ve got until January 2, 2026, to share your thoughts, so don’t miss out!
Next: 2025-21807, Empowering Broadband Consumers Through Transparency; Delete, Delete, Delete
The FCC wants to make broadband info simpler by cutting some rules that make providers share lots of details, like reading labels over the phone or listing old fees. This affects internet companies and customers, aiming to save time and money while keeping info clear. Comments on these changes are open until January 2, 2026, so jump in and share your thoughts!