FCC Asks: Can We Make Radio Paperwork Less of a Headache?
Published Date: 12/10/2025
Notice
Summary
The FCC is checking in on its paperwork rules for businesses, governments, and nonprofits using certain radio frequencies. They want your thoughts on how to make forms easier and less time-consuming, especially for small businesses. Comments are due by February 9, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to help shape the process and possibly save time and money!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Industry reporting burden and costs
If you are a business, state/local/tribal government, or nonprofit using the 3550–3650 MHz band, this collection affects you. The FCC estimates 110,782 respondents and 226,099 responses, at 0.25 to 1 hour per response, for a total annual burden of 64,561 hours and total annual cost of $13,213,975. Comments on these burdens are due by February 9, 2026.
Automated daily device reporting expected
The FCC states some responses will be automated via devices and are likely to occur consistently, likely daily. If you operate Citizens Broadband Radio Service Devices (CBSDs), your equipment may send daily automated reports as part of the Spectrum Access System coordination.
Small-business paperwork relief requested
The FCC specifically requests comments on ways to minimize the collection burden on small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees. If you represent a small business, you can submit suggestions about simplifying forms or reducing time burdens by February 9, 2026.
PALs must report unused CBSDs
Section 96.25(c)(1)(i) requires Priority Access Licensees (PALs) to inform the Spectrum Access System (SAS) if a Citizens Broadband Radio Service Device (CBSD) is no longer in use. This is a reporting requirement tied to maintaining PAL protections.
Default PAL protection contour with self-report option
Section 96.25(c)(2)(i) creates a default protection contour for any CBSD at the outer limit of the PAL Protection Area, but allows a PAL to self-report a contour smaller than the SAS-established default. This rule sets how protection areas are established and reported.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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