Can the City of South Lake Tahoe prevent small cell facilities from being placed in the public right-of-way?

No. Small cell facilities are allowed in the public right-of-way per federal and state laws. The limitations on the city’s authority are similar to those imposed on it with respect to other utilities (electric, gas, water).

However, the City may regulate aesthetics (i.e., how a facility looks and, within a technically feasible tolerance, where it is located). The City of South Lake Tahoe’s City Code ensures facilities proposed in the public right-of-way are placed in a way that minimizes their impacts within the areas that the City is allowed to regulate. In addition, applications are evaluated in compliance with Encroachment Permit requirements.

For more information, please see the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) website.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Small Cell?
2. What is a Macro Cell (traditional cell towers)?
3. Can the City of South Lake Tahoe prevent small cell facilities from being placed in the public right-of-way?
4. Who governs the location of wireless facilities?
5. Can the City prohibit the installation of small cells due to RF emissions or other health concerns?
6. Can the City reject wireless communication facility applications and just say “no”?
7. How does the City currently permit new wireless communication facilities?
8. Will I be noticed of a public hearing(s) for a new wireless communication facility?
9. Is there a limit to the number of cell facilities South Lake Tahoe can permit?