Research Tips

Use these 3 research tips to gather a comprehensive view of the application, local zoning regulations, and the preexisting wireless infrastructure network in your community. This information is valuable for understanding impacts, planning advocacy efforts, and preparing for public discussions.

STEP 1
Find the Local Wireless Ordinance

Understanding the guidelines and regulations in your local wireless ordinance helps to identify whether the proposed cell tower complies with local laws. By reviewing the ordinance, you may find that the proposed tower violates specific requirements, such as height restrictions, setbacks from residential areas, or aesthetic guidelines. Highlighting these violations can strengthen your opposition.

Please note that it may be helpful to find your entire zoning code (beyond just the wireless or telecommunications ordinance), since things like definitions, duties, processes and appeals applied to wireless infrastructure may be spelled out in a different section. Also, make sure that you're accessing the most current version of the ordinance, as zoning regulations may be updated or amended over time.

How to Do It:

  1. Web Search: Since most local governments have their zoning ordinances published online, start by checking your city or county's official website and look for a section dedicated to planning, zoning or municipal codes. You may also wish to look at online databases like Municode.com that compile zoning ordinances.

  2. Make a Call or Visit: If you can't find the information online or prefer to speak with someone directly, you can visit your local city hall or county administration office and  ask the planning, zoning or development  department to provide you with the most current copy of the zoning ordinances.

Look for Both Macro Towers and Small Cells Ordinances

Please be aware that zoning regulations can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. Some cities may have consolidated regulations that cover both macro towers and small cells, while others have separate zoning ordinances or regulations. The reason for this differentiation often lies in the distinct characteristics and deployment requirements of macro towers and small cells. Zoning ordinances for small cells may focus on issues such as placement on existing infrastructure (like utility poles or streetlights), aesthetic considerations, equipment size and proximity to sensitive areas such as residential neighborhoods or historic districts. Zoning ordinances for macro towers may include specific requirements regarding setbacks, height restrictions, aesthetics, environmental impact assessments and community input

STEP 2
Find the Application

Find the application for the cell tower or small cell antenna that has been filed, including (1) the full application and (2) any relevant correspondence. Once you find the application, be sure to determine the jurisdiction of the tower. Is it on city, county or private land? Start by contacting these local government offices by phone or email, or visiting their websites:

  1. Building or Planning Department: Start by reaching out to your city or county's building or planning department. These departments are typically responsible for reviewing and approving permits for construction projects, including cell towers and antennas. Here’s a draft email requesting information on permits to get you started.

  2. Zoning or Land Use Office: They can provide information on any zoning hearings or land use approvals required for telecommunications infrastructure.

Note: Many local governments post public notices, planning board agendas, and upcoming hearings on their official websites. Check regularly for updates related to telecommunications facilities.

Any correspondence may reveal insights that can inform your strategy. For example:

  • A “Notice of Deficiency” might highlight specific issues that can be leveraged and indicates that the reviewing authority is scrutinizing the application carefully, which can be advantageous for opponents.

  • A “Tolling Agreement” can provide additional time to organize, raise concerns, and ensure the application is carefully scrutinized.

STEP 3
Assess the Pre-Existing Infrastructure

Finding out how many wireless installations are already in your community can be essential for understanding local wireless infrastructure and planning advocacy efforts. Here are several strategies you can use to obtain this information:

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Databases: In the United States, the FCC maintains databases that include information on cell tower and antenna locations:

  1. Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) Database: This database lists all registered towers and antenna structures that are above a certain height, providing details such as location, height, and owner. It's searchable by various criteria, including location.

  2. Universal Licensing System (ULS): The ULS database includes information on all licensed wireless communications services, including cell towers. It can be searched by licensee name, call sign, frequency, and location.

Local Government Resources:

  1. Building or Planning Department: Contact your local building or planning department to inquire about permits issued for cell towers and small cell installations. These departments often have records of all local development projects, including telecommunications infrastructure.

  2. Public Works Department: They might have information on small cell installations within public rights-of-way.

  3. City Council and Planning Commission Meetings: Check the archives of local government meetings for discussions and permits related to telecommunications infrastructure. Public hearings about new installations often provide detailed information.

Online Mapping Tools and Databases: Several online tools and databases provide maps or lists of cell tower locations:

  1. CellMapper: This is a crowd-sourced mapping service that provides locations and information about cellular network coverage and tower locations for multiple carriers.

  2. OpenSignal: Offers maps that show coverage and signal strength, indirectly indicating where towers might be located.

  3. AntennaSearch: A tool that can be used to search for nearby towers and antennas. However, be aware that the information might not always be up-to-date or complete.

  4. Ookla 5G Map: Search for small cell installations near you.

  5. Verizon: See Verizon’s coverage map.