Advancement of the Low Power Television, TV Translator and Class A Television Service
Published Date: 7/9/2026
Rule
Summary
The FCC just gave the green light to new rules that affect low power TV stations, TV translators, and Class A TV services. These changes update how these stations report info, starting July 9, 2026, making things clearer and smoother. If you run or work with these stations, get ready for some new paperwork—but no big costs or penalties if you follow the new rules!
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 2 mixed.
Approved paperwork imposes time and dollar burdens
OMB approved three information collections (3060-0016, 3060-0466, 3060-1216) on June 26, 2026. Together the collections report these totals: 910 respondents with 2–2.5 hours/response and $4,698,511 total annual cost (3060-0016); 29,146 respondents with 0.166–1 hour/response and 26,884 total annual burden hours, no costs (3060-0466); and 1,236 respondents with 40,686 responses, .004–15 hours/response, 6,570 total annual burden hours, and $961,800 total annual cost (3060-1216).
New rules take effect July 9, 2026
The amended rules in 47 CFR 73.3700, 74.787, 74.791, 74.793 and 74.799 become effective on July 9, 2026. If you run or work with low power TV, TV translator, or Class A TV stations, the new requirements start on that date.
Displacement applications must explain displacement
Low power TV and TV translator stations filing a displacement application (FCC Form 2100—Schedule C) must include an exhibit explaining how their facilities were displaced, under rule 74.787(a).
Channel sharees can stop sharing to get own channel
An LPTV or TV translator channel sharee may cease channel sharing and seek a license for a non-shared channel by filing a major modification (FCC Form 2100, Schedule C) specifying a non-shared channel, under rule 74.799(i).
Agreements required with interference-exceeding applications
Applicants who seek to construct facilities that would exceed permissible interference limits pursuant to an agreement with affected parties must submit a copy of that agreement with their application under rule 74.793.
Stations must use appropriate call signs
The Commission revised the LPTV call sign rule (74.791) to require stations to have a call sign appropriate for their service designation; stations without an appropriate call sign must file a call sign change. Existing call signs for Class A and LPTV stations may be grandfathered.
600 MHz wireless notification requirement removed
The Commission eliminated the rule (73.3700(g)(4)) that required wireless licensees assigned in the 600 MHz band to notify low power TV and TV translator stations of their intent to commence wireless operations and the likelihood of harmful interference, as part of the Media Bureau Incentive Auction implementation updates.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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