FCC Approves Changes To Rules Governing LPTV, TV Translator, And Class A Stations

On December 18, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a Report and Order (Order) adopting changes to its rules for the Low Power Television Service (LPTV Service¹). The Order implements a series of revisions to the application processes and operating procedures for LPTV Service stations that were originally proposed in a July 2024 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

The Order will take effect 30 days after publication in the Federal Register.

The Order contains the following provisions, which apply to all LPTV, TV Translator, and Class A stations unless otherwise noted:

• Mandates applications for channel-sharing or displacement relief calculate maximum distances based on the location of the station's existing antenna instead of the station's community of license. This harmonizes the calculation method with applications for minor changes.