First Amendment to Nationwide Programmatic Agreement for the Collocation of Wireless Antennas

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has released the First Amendment to the Nationwide Programmatic Agreement for the Collocation of Wireless Antennas. This agreement outlines the guidelines and procedures that allow wireless providers to install and maintain antennas on certain existing structures, such as buildings and utility poles.

The First Amendment updates and expands upon the original agreement, which was first created in 2001. It includes new provisions such as guidelines for historic preservation and environmental review, as well as rules for the installation of small wireless facilities.

One of the key changes in the First Amendment is the inclusion of specific guidelines for the installation of small wireless facilities, which are antennas that are less than 50 feet in height and have a smaller footprint. These facilities are becoming increasingly important as demand for wireless connectivity continues to grow.

The First Amendment also includes provisions for historic preservation, which require wireless providers to take steps to minimize the impact of antenna installations on historic properties. This includes consulting with historic preservation organizations and taking into account the visual impact of the antennas.

Environmental review is also addressed in the First Amendment, with guidelines for assessing the potential impact of antenna installations on the environment. This includes considering the impact on wildlife, water quality, and other environmental factors.

Overall, the First Amendment to the Nationwide Programmatic Agreement for the Collocation of Wireless Antennas is an important update to the guidelines and procedures that govern the installation of wireless antennas. It provides new provisions for the installation of small wireless facilities, as well as guidelines for historic preservation and environmental review. These updates will help ensure that wireless providers can continue to expand their networks while also minimizing the impact on the environment and historic properties.