FCC Seeks Comment on FM Short-Spacing Rule Petition

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 30, 2026 | 4:30pm CT

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The FCC's Media Bureau is seeking public comment on a petition that would give FM broadcasters additional flexibility to relocate transmission facilities from aging towers or lost tower sites while maintaining interference protections for other stations.

The Bureau opened MB Docket No. 26-303 in an October 29 public notice addressing an amended petition from Charles M. Anderson. Comments are due December 14, 2026, with reply comments due January 13, 2027.

Anderson proposes adding subsection (f) to Section 73.215 of the FCC's rules, allowing exceptions to the minimum distance limitations in subsection (e). Applicants would have to demonstrate that their proposed facilities would cause no greater interference to short-spaced stations than would occur at the minimum distances specified in the existing provision.

According to the Bureau's summary, Anderson argues that the current distance limits leave existing FM stations no leeway to move from aging towers or lost sites to existing towers.

Anderson initially petitioned the Commission on February 2 to delete subsection (e). His June 16 amendment instead would retain that provision and add a mechanism for exceptions based on an interference showing.

The Bureau said it received supporting letters from Urban One President and CEO Alfred C. Liggins III, dated July 23, and Marble City Media President and CEO Lee Perryman, dated August 20.

In a separate supporting comment, former Illinois station licensee Randal J. Miller argued that the change would help broadcasters maintain service to their communities. Miller, who said he spent 43 years as a licensee before retiring in August 2025, urged the FCC to place greater emphasis on improving existing facilities.

The Bureau has opened the proceeding for public input and has not adopted the requested rule change. Filings can be submitted through the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System under docket number 26-303.