Radio Spectrum
Licence Types
Radio
Licences are issued to RTÉ and the BCI in respect of radio services under the 1960 Act 
and 1988 Act respectively. Digital Broadcasting licenses are issued to RTÉ and the BCI under the Broadcasting (Amendment) Act 2007. If you are an independent body and wish to obtain a licence to broadcast radio services you should contact the BCI. Some brief information on the procedures involved can be found on our Consumer page.
TV
- TV Broadcasting:
Licences are issued to RTÉ and the BCI in respect of terrestrial TV services under the 1960 Act
- UHF Television Programme Retransmission systems ("Deflectors")
Such systems are licensed under the Wireless Telegraphy (UHF Television Programme Retransmission) Regulations 2006. The licences are subject to annual renewal. These licences authorise the operation of retransmission stations utilising a maximum of four frequency channels in respect of any single location. The text of these licences may be viewed in Document No. SI645of2006
The Commission held two licensing rounds for such licences, firstly in December 1999 and then again in May 2000. There are no plans to organise any further licensing rounds.
12GHz MMDS
Legislative Basis
These systems are licensed under the Wireless Telegraphy (Multipoint Microwave Distribution System - MMDS) Regulations 2003. They allow licensees operating in certain bands, including the 2.6 and 12 GHz bands, to distribute licenced programme services within the geographic areas covered by their licences.
Application Procedure
There is no spectrum available in the 2.6 GHz band for licensing of additional MMDS providers. With regard to the 12 GHZ band, however, there are a number of documents relating to the application of an MMDS licence using the 11.7 – 12.5 GHz delivery system. These documents should be read prior to applying in order to understand the procedures put in place to deal with the applications. A suggested, stepped process, is outlined below for a potential applicant.
This document provides information for those intending to apply for a licence. This document should be read in conjunction with the Wireless Telegraphy (MMDS) Regulations, 2003, mentioned below.
These Regulations apply to a licence to keep, have possession of, install, maintain, work and use a MMDS for the distribution of licensed programme services or for such other purposes as are specified in the licence. They also outline the fee structure for an MMDS licence.
These conditions detail the characteristics of the equipment that need to be considered for the purposes of frequency spectrum management, safety and the provision of a satisfactory service to the subscriber.
This application form is designed for individuals or organisations that wish to apply for a MMDS Licence to operate a digital television delivery system at 11.7-12.5 GHz. Please ensure you have read the accompanying "Guidance Notes for Applicants" and the Wireless Telegraphy (MMDS) Regulations 2003, before completing this application.
If there is anything you wish to discuss after reading the previous documents please feel free to contact us at broadcastingat@comreg.ie or phone 01 – 8049600 and ask for a member of the broadcasting team.
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