Satellite TV Antenna Laws

The placement of a satellite TV dish is controlled by reception and the law.

Satellite television broadcasting and reception have become an essential part of American life. People depend on their satellite television programing to view the entertainment and sporting events that are important to them. Satellite dishes must be placed in a manner that enables the reception of the signal from an orbiting satellite, and must be placed in accordance with federal statutes and local ordinances.

Clear Signal

The broadcast of television signals from orbiting satellites is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Each broadcasting company has predetermined frequencies they are required to use, and the systems that consumers purchase to receive television signals are programmed to only receive the specific signals for which they paid. Each television broadcasting company's satellites have specific positions above the Earth that dictate the aiming of the consumer's antenna dish. The homeowner or apartment dweller must have a clear line of sight to the satellite that is broadcasting the specific signal for the consumer. Satellite TV antennas will not receive a good signal if blocked by trees, buildings or hillsides.

Neighbor's Rights

Federal regulations prohibit local building codes, home owner associations or apartment complex regulations from unnecessarily restricting you from installing dish antennas that will allow you to receive the television signal you want to bring into your home. The federal regulations do allow local codes and regulations to protect the aesthetics of your neighbor's property or rights to prevent interference to your neighbors when your satellite dish is installed. The normal size of home satellite dish antennas is less than 39.37 inches. The size restrictions do not apply to residential satellite dishes in Alaska. Different regulations apply to larger antennas such as those used by television stations or government agencies.

Historic Preservation

There are three instances when a local authority may charge a fee to permit the installation of a satellite dish antenna. The first rule applies to any reasonable stipulation or inspection fee that is designed to protect public safety. The installation of a dish antenna must not impose any safety risk for people who will live or work in the area. The second instance of reasonable regulation by local authorities is to ensure the integrity of a historic structure or ensure a historic district is not destroyed. The third case in which local regulation of the placement of a satellite dish is allowed is when the mast taller than 12 feet must be used to receive a clear signal from the satellite. A tall mast may be required to clear such obstructions as air-conditioning units or chimneys. Inspection by local building inspectors ensures the mast and dish do not interfere with the operation surrounding utilities and structures.

References

• Federal Communications Commission: Information Sheet
• Condo Lawyers: FCC Rules Regulate Satellite Dishes in Community Assoications
• Federal Communications Commission: Satellite

Resources

• HOA Q&A: Satellite Dish Rules
• City of Tahoe: Antenna Installation Policy