How to Protect Your Rights Regarding Satellite Dishes

You want to install a satellite dish, but your neighbor objects because he believes it's unsightly. Perhaps your home is a rental and your landlord refuses to allow you to install a satellite dish. Does this mean you're stuck with cable or, even worse, rabbit ears? Absolutely not. In fact, whether you're a homeowner or renter, you are entitled to protect your rights regarding the installation and use of satellite dishes.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access

Instructions

1. Read over your rights regarding satellite dishes in the Federal Communications Commission's Over-the-Air-Reception Devices rules, also known as OTARD (see Resources below).

2. Be aware that, according to the OTARD rules, applicable satellite dishes are defined as "dish type" antennas that provide direct broadcast satellite service and that are no more than 39.37 inches (one meter) in diameter.

3. If you rent, note that the OTARD rules only apply to rental properties where the tenant enjoys exclusive use of the entire space. If the satellite dish is to be installed in a common area shared by other tenants or residents, then the OTARD rules do not apply and there must be a consensus among all parties before a satellite dish can be installed.

4. Refer your landlord to the OTARD rules if he or she refuses to permit you to install a satellite dish.

5. Protect your rights regarding the installation and use of satellite dishes by filing a petition and complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Renters should get an agreement in writing between all affected parties to avoid problems later.

• Be aware that there are restrictions on your rights regarding satellite dishes if the location where it is to be installed raises concerns regarding safety or if the property in question is subject to historic preservation.

• Safety issues override your rights to install a satellite dish under certain circumstances. For instance, you may not install a satellite dish in an outdoor stairwell or on a fire escape.

• If your neighborhood is subject to restrictions placed by a community or neighborhood association, then you may have to defer to their decision regarding the installation of a satellite dish. The same applies to a condominium or townhouse complex, where residents may share common areas.