FCC Tweaks C-Band Rules in the Name of Wireless Flexibility
Published Date: 10/29/2026
Rule
Summary
The FCC is making it easier to use the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz band, especially the upper C-Band (3.98-4.2 GHz), for flexible wireless services. This change affects companies using this spectrum by updating reporting rules, with new info collection approved and effective as of October 29, 2026. These updates help speed up wireless innovation while keeping paperwork clear and manageable.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Space station operators must file Transition Plans
If you are an eligible space station operator, you must publicly file a Transition Plan with the FCC no later than November 5, 2026. The plan must describe how you will clear 4000-4160 MHz (4.0-4.16 GHz), list affected satellites and earth stations, provide timelines, and explain required upgrades; each eligible space station transition plan is estimated to require 2,720 hours to prepare.
Mandatory clearing deadlines for incumbent FSS operations
All incumbent Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) operations in the contiguous United States must clear the 4.0-4.16 GHz portion of the C-band by December 30, 2030 for the top 75 Partial Economic Areas (PEAs), and by June 30, 2031 for all other areas.
Aggregate paperwork burden and estimated cost
The FCC estimates 3,003 respondents and responses for this information collection, with a total annual burden of 104,160 hours and a total annual cost of $540,000. The OMB Control Number for this collection is 3060-1272 and OMB approved it on September 21, 2026 (expiration March 31, 2027).
Auction timing and bidder information requirement
The Commission will make 160 megahertz (3.98-4.14 GHz) available via a Commission-administered public auction that must be completed by July 4, 2027. Before the auction, potential bidders will be provided information about when they will get access to the spectrum and estimates of incumbent relocation and incentive payments.
Incumbent earth station lump-sum election filing
If you operate an incumbent earth station and choose a lump-sum payment election, the FCC estimates preparing that filing will take about 32 hours. These elections are part of the one-time information collection related to the C-band transition.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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2026-22080, Sunshine Act Meeting; Open Commission Meeting Thursday, October 29, 2026
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2026-22034, Television Broadcasting Services Elko, Nevada
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2026-21810, Petition for Reconsideration of Action in Rulemaking Proceeding
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-22034, Television Broadcasting Services Elko, Nevada
KENV-TV in Elko, Nevada tried switching from channel 10 to channel 20 but couldn’t finish building the new setup on time. Now, the FCC is letting them switch back to channel 10 so they can keep broadcasting without interruptions. This change starts October 28, 2026, keeping your favorite shows coming smoothly!
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