GoKawiilUS cities and counties fight FCC proposal to preempt local broadband permitting rules
The FCC is taking public comments on a rulemaking that would override state and local permitting rules for wired broadband deployment, including a 120-day permit deadline and limits on fees charged to providers. Groups representing mayors, counties and cities—including the US Conference of Mayors and National League of Cities—filed comments in September opposing the plan, calling local permitting essential for public safety rather than a deployment barrier. Broadband providers support the FCC's proposal.
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The dispute pits federal deregulation aimed at speeding broadband buildout against local control over public rights-of-way, and its outcome could reshape how much say cities have over infrastructure work under their streets. Local governments argue the FCC is targeting the wrong culprit, suggesting ISPs' own permit-hoarding and competitive tactics are actually what slows deployment. If the FCC proceeds, it could face legal challenges from municipalities that call the preemption illegal.
- FCC proposal would set a 120-day deadline and cap fees local governments can charge for broadband permits.
- Groups representing US mayors, counties and cities say the plan is illegal and undermines public safety oversight of rights-of-way.
- Local governments contend ISPs themselves, not permitting rules, are the real bottleneck slowing broadband deployment.
Source: arstechnica.com, 2026-09-22
Published there as: “Cities across US oppose Trump FCC plan to preempt local broadband rules”
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