[BC] Local studio rules

[Mark Humphrey]

Yes, stations need to be careful about this stuff or risk a big fine.
Enforcement has likely been stepped up in response to complaints about the
decline of "localism" in broadcasting.

But this seems to me like yet another FCC rule that wasn't thought through
very well.

Are there any rules requiring a station to publicize its main studio
location or toll free phone number?  The only requirement that comes to mind
is the coverage area map, to be retained in the public file, showing
transmitter and main studio locations.   But -- Catch 22 -- if the public
file is kept at the main studio, nobody will have access to that map until
they find the studio!

So, if the public doesn't know about the "legal" main studio (usually the
case when the "defacto" main studio is somewhere else) what useful purpose
does it serve??  (Especially when there's no requirement to originate any
programming from that location.)

Mark




On 2/23/06, Phil Alexander <dynotherm at earthlink.net> wrote:
>
> . If the distance appears to be
> within a quarter of a mile of the 25 mile limit of
> 73.1125, a professional civil engineer (registered
> *CIVIL* PE) or registered land surveyor should make the
> final distance determination. It will be expensive, but
> cheaper than a fine for violation. (And if you are found
> in violation you will have to correct the violation AND
> pay the fine.)
>
> If your only useful studio location is beyond 25 miles,
> then you need to consult a communications attorney about
> getting a 73.1125 waiver. Upon a showing of good cause, if
> the distance is close, the FCC may grant a waiver.
>
> Another thing to remember is that (excepting special
> arrangements) your public files must be at the studios.
> You should carefully review the public file rules if
> you are considering locating studios away from your COL.
>
>