Original construction permits (and major changes) for Low Power FM (LPFM) broadcast stations can be filed during this window.
LPFM Radio Filing Window Dates
November 1, 2023 to November 8, 2023
Potential Availability of LPFM Radio Channels
To check availability and express interest in having The LPFM Store handle your organization’s LPFM application, visit: NexusBroadcast.com or LPFMStore.com
2023 Low Power FM Radio Filing Window Basic Details
Organizations can apply for original construction permits during this filing window or make “major” modifications to existing licensed facilities. A major modification includes changing channels without the need for a reduced interference study and relocating over 11.2 kilometers without a 60 dBu overlap between the current and proposed facility.
LPFM Applicant Requirements and Limitations
This application window is open to any non-profit organization recognized as a not-for-profit corporation by any state. IRS 501(c) status is not required, but the corporate status must be valid at the time of filing and throughout the process. New organizations must have their corporation documents stamped by the state before the window period, even if the date falls within the window.
Each LPFM applicant can apply for only one facility in the filing window.
Current LPFM Licensees
Existing LPFM licensees can file major change applications during this window. They will compete with new applicants in case of competing applications.
Certain changes are allowed as minor changes and do not require a window. These include channel changes within specific frequency ranges and physical moves within certain distance limits.
Low Power FM Radio Service Technical Details
Applicants can propose a facility with an effective radiated power of 50 to 100 watts, operating at a height of 30 meters above average terrain (HAAT).
Distance Separation Requirements for LPFM Radio
LPFM stations must adhere to strict distance separation requirements, considering full-service stations, FM translators, and foreign allotments on adjacent channels. A waiver process exists for second-adjacent channel short-spacing if interference reaches occupied structures or major highways.
Low Power FM Radio Community Coverage Requirements
There are no specific community coverage or city of license requirements for LPFM.
LPFM Radio Competing Applications (MX)
The FCC will determine tentative selectees based on a point system for LPFM applicants with competing applications. Points are awarded for factors like local presence, main studio pledge, local programming pledge, diversity in ownership, and tribal priority.
Nature of the LPFM Radio Broadcast Service
This window is for noncommercial educational (NCE) broadcast stations. Commercial enterprises cannot participate. NCE stations can acknowledge underwriters without promoting their businesses, following strict language rules.
Educational Statements for LPFM Radio Stations
LPFM applicants must demonstrate that they are educational organizations advancing an educational purpose. Program descriptions and schedules should support this purpose.
Parties to the Low Power FM Radio Application
LPFM licensees must be local, with board members residing within a certain distance of the transmitting antenna. Certain exceptions exist for colleges and universities that own full-service stations.
Responsibilities of the LPFM Radio Licensee
Once a facility is fully constructed, the application for a license is filed. Licenses are issued for 8-year terms, renewable with ease. LPFM stations are not required to maintain public inspection files or file ownership reports.
Low Power FM Radio Public Notice
Accepted applicants must place a public notice on their website or other specified publicly accessible websites for 30 days.
Costs to start a Low Power FM Radio Station in 2023
Building and operating an LPFM station can be costly. Certified transmitters and EAS decoders are required. Stations playing copyrighted music must pay annual royalty fees. The costs of power, infrastructure, and property taxes must also be considered.
Filing Assistance for LPFM Radio
The LPFM Store offers filing assistance for LPFM applications starting at $1,500. Additional fees may apply based on organization type and complexities. Preliminary checks for availability can be provided without payment.
We are excited to work with you and hear your station on the air soon! It’s important to get this started right now as time is very limited. We cannot generally unable to accept new clients after October 15. Unfortunatly, the pricing does increase as time diminishes and demand increases as the window approaches. To get started it is imperative to contact us today! NexusBroadcast.com or LPFMStore.com
The LPFM Store and Nexus Broadcast have helped hundreds of radio stations large and small achieve their dream of owning and operating a licensed radio station. We handle primarily FM radio engineering for commercial full-power radio stations as well as Low Power FM Radio stations. We have been in operation since 1985 and pride ourselves in quality and reliable work as well as customer satisfaction. Check out our partial list of previous customer’s pages and our testimonials page. We would love to add your testimonial to that list soon as well! Many of our customers have become lifelong friends. Ready to fulfill that dream my friend?
Leo Ashcraft
CEO
Nexus Broadcast / The LPFM Store