Demand for consumer and business use of wireless data is expanding rapidly, and providers are increasingly seeking to build new wireless facilities and/or modify existing ones to increase network capacity and coverage. This new capacity may be a combination of new and/or upgrades to existing “macro cell sites” or increasingly, the installation of new “small cell” sites. New “small cell” sites can provide a flexible solution to augment larger “macro cell sites” and additional capacity to areas that may have poor coverage. These new Wireless “Small-Cell Antenna Facilities” (SAF) are claimed to be an effective solution to expand wireless network coverage and increase network capacity because they are smaller, have low power needs, and cost significantly less than traditional monopole towers or rooftop installations.
In 2018, the City worked with wireless providers on a SAF Ordinance to create a ministerial permit process for SAF development. The SAF Ordinance creates design, development, and operational standards for the SAFs that helps protects the City’s environment and aesthetics. The City also completed a Master Lease Agreement (MLA) template for SAF projects proposed in City-owned properties and the City’s utility poles. The SAF Ordinance and SAF-MLA streamlines SAF projects for wireless developers because it established procedures, submittal requirements, timelines, and permit fees for these new wireless facilities. The City Council adopted the SAF Ordinance on June 19, 2018 and the SAF-MLA Resolution on December 4, 2018. Applications for SAFs are available below.
SAF Resources
Macro Sites and Minor Mods
Applicants interested in developing new wireless telecommunication facilities will need to obtain a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Division prior to pursuing building permits. The CUP is publicly notified and approved by the City’s Planning Commission through a public hearing. The application requires a $3000 developer’s deposit and takes approximately 8 to 12 weeks for review, depending on the completeness of the submittal. The initial screen check will be completed within 30 days.
Applicants interested in modifying existing wireless sites without a substantial change can proceed directly with a building permit. The applicant is required to provide a letter of justification that explains why the modification complies with FCC regulations. The building permit application is available at this link. For more information on these applications, please contact William He, Senior Planner.