Code Amendments - 5G Small Cell
Chapter 12.20 Utility Amendment & 5G
File No. 20-012 DCA proposes an additional section to Title 12 (12.20) of Sandy’s Municipal Code to regulate the siting and franchising of 5G small cell “stealth” facilities.
SUMMARY OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
The municipal code does not currently contain any regulatory language related to small cell facilities. The purpose of this proposed Chapter 12.20 is to establish reasonable and nondiscriminatory policies and procedures for the placement of small wireless facilities in the right-of-way within the City’s jurisdiction, consistent with and to the extent permitted by federal and state law, in order to provide public benefit consistent with the preservation of the integrity, safe usage, and reasonable aesthetic qualities of the City rights-of-way and the City as a whole.
BACKGROUND AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
New cellular technology has developed with the addition of 5G wireless technology. Rather than requiring cell towers, 5G requires small cell “stealth” facilities. These facilities can be sited on existing utility poles within a city. Because of this, cities are given some degree of legal leeway to regulate the siting and franchising of small cell facilities.