Local Government Permitting Wireless Telecommunications Facilities

Cell Phone Connectivity Interim Study Committee. The bill requires that an application by a telecommunications provider for the siting and construction of a new wireless telecommunications facility or for the substantial change of an existing wireless telecommunications facility (application) submitted to a local government is deemed approved by the local government if:

• The local government has not approved or rejected the application within 60 days after the application is submitted to the local government or conducted a pre-application meeting or other documented communication regarding the application, whichever is earlier (60-day time period);
• The telecommunications provider has provided all public notices required under applicable law; and
• The telecommunications provider has provided notice to the local government that the 60-day time period has lapsed and that the application is deemed approved.

A local government may toll the 60-day time period to allow the local government to make timely requests for information to complete an application. The 60-day time period may also be extended by mutual agreement of the telecommunications provider and the local government.

The bill also prohibits a local government from requiring a telecommunications provider that removes, discontinues, or replaces telecommunications equipment at an existing wireless telecommunications facility to file a new application or obtain additional permits if:

• The telecommunications provider notifies the local government of the necessary removal, discontinuance, or replacement of the telecommunications equipment; and
• The removal, discontinuance, or replacement of the telecommunications equipment is not a substantial change to the facility.

The bill takes effect on January 1, 2026.

(Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)