Feb. 14, 2019 — Redmond, Wash. The city’s Technical Committee issued a report recommending amendments to the Redmond Zoning Code to enable deployment of fourth-generation (4G) and fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication technology in compliance with a recent Federal Communications Commission ruling.
The FCC’s September 2018 decision limited local governments’ authority over small wireless facilities, prompting Redmond officials to update local regulations ahead of federal rules taking effect. The proposed changes aim to balance infrastructure needs with community concerns, such as property values and aesthetics.
The proposed amendment will provide opportunities for 4G and 5G Technology deployment to the Redmond community in compliance with the current federal law and provide clear guidance for deployment of this infrastructure. (Technical Committee Report)
City officials noted that 5G requires denser networks of small cell facilities on existing structures like streetlights, unlike traditional macro towers. Redmond was actively planning regulations when the FCC ruling arrived, as reported by local media. According to Cascade Business News, the city charged ahead with planning efforts until the federal decision.
KBND reported that Redmond city officials sought ways to regulate development to protect property values before federal rules preempt local authority (KBND).
The amendments were part of broader efforts to prepare for 5G, which promises faster speeds and supports smart city initiatives. An issue matrix for the zoning code amendment was also prepared (Issue Matrix).
FCC-18-133 established shot clocks for permit approvals and limited fees for small wireless facilities (FCC Document).
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