Federal Register #2026-12778

FCC Sets Application Limits and Eligibility for 2026 NCE FM Translator Permits

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is implementing new rules for the 2026 filing window for noncommercial educational (NCE) reserved band FM translator station construction permits. - Government Buyer: - Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Media Bureau, Audio Division - No specific OEMs or commercial vendors are involved, as this is a regulatory action - Products/Services Requested: - Construction permits for new NCE reserved band FM translator stations - No physical products or commercial services are being procured - Key Requirements: - Applicants must be licensees or permittees of existing NCE FM, noncommercial AM, or LPFM stations - Application limits: 10 per applicant nationally; 4 for Tribal LPFM applicants; 2 for other LPFM applicants - Four-year holding period for granted construction permits to prevent speculative filings - Permits require four years of on-air operation rebroadcasting the primary station before changes or transfers - The rule is designed to promote efficient spectrum use, prevent speculation, and expand local broadcasting services

Description

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted eligibility restrictions and a limit on the number of applications each applicant may file in the 2026 filing window for new noncommercial educational (NCE) reserved band FM translator station construction permits. The rule sets a general limit of ten applications per applicant nationally, with specific caps for Tribal LPFM applicants (four applications) and other LPFM applicants (two applications). Additionally, applicants must be licensees or permittees of existing NCE FM, noncommercial AM, or LPFM stations that the proposed FM translator will rebroadcast. A four-year holding period is also established to prevent speculative applications.

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