About Low Power FM

Updated Sept. 10, 2013

Summary

Low-Power FM (LPFM) is a class of non-commercial FM station intended for non-profit groups to create non-commercial stations that are both inexpensive to build and operate. Because of their low power levels they serve limited geographic areas and are ideal for serving small and underserved communities.

The next opportunity to apply for a LPFM begins October 15, 2013, so time is running out for groups to prepare. We have assembled this page to provide basic information about LPFM along with important news and background. It is not intended to be a comprehensive resource, but we hope it serves as a good starting point. Please don’t hesitate to email us with any questions you may have: editors@radiosurvivor.com.

Contents:

1. What is Low-Power FM (LPFM)?

2. How do I apply for an LPFM license?

3. How to get help applying for an LPFM license

4. LPFM Coverage Highlights from Radio Survivor

5. Additional LPFM Resources

1. What is Low-Power FM (LPFM)?

Low-power FM is a class of non-commercial broadcast radio service in the US created by the FCC to provide an inexpensive method for non-profit groups to get on the air. The service was established in 2000 after significant pressure and lobbying by advocates, including religious groups like the United Church of Christ, and media justice groups like the Prometheus Radio Project.

Thus far the FCC has only issued licenses for LPFM stations operating between 50 and 100 watts of power (LP100), although the original order also contains a provision for lower-powered 10-watt stations (LP10).

2. How do I apply for an LPFM license?

To get a LPFM station a group must obtain a license from the FCC. Applications for licenses may only be submitted during “windows” scheduled by the Commission. The first LPFM licensing window occurred between May 2000 and May 2001, with each state assigned a one-month window in that period for submitted applications.

A new application window is scheduled to be open October 15 – 29, 2013, although additional details have not been released by the FCC. Unlike the first application window in 2000, there will be more licenses available in more cities. Any group that wishes to apply for an LPFM station should plan to be ready to apply by October 15, 2013. It is unlikely that there will be additional LPFM licensing windows in the near future after that date.

The first thing you will want to do is to find an open frequency in your area. You will have to tell the FCC what frequency you would like, and it must be available for an LPFM station. The FCC will not assign a frequency to you.

You can find a frequency using the free RFree software that will also allow the Prometheus Radio Project to assist you more easily, or you make a search online using REC Networks’ myLPFM tool.

Then you can view the archive of the FCC’s Aug. 20 webinar on how to apply for an LPFM license. Follow along with the PDF of Form 318.

3. How to get help applying for an LPFM license

LPFM stations were designed to be less expensive and easier to both obtain and operate than full-power stations. However, the process of applying for a license and building a station still require research, preparation and access to some radio engineering expertise. Several groups exist to assist non-profit groups in this process.

• The Prometheus Radio Project was instrumental in advocating for and assisting the FCC in creating LPFM. Prometheus can provide support to non-profit groups looking to start low-power community radio stations in a variety of ways.
• Common Frequency has been supporting the launch of grassroots stations since 2006. The group can aid applicants in obtaining construction permits with legal and engineering assistance.
• Brown Paper Tickets is providing assistance to LPFM applicants in the Seattle/King County area of Washington state.
• Radio Spark is an online community for LPFM applicants and supporters.
• Intercollegiate Broadcast System and College Broadcasters Inc. will each help member schools to apply for LPFM licenses. Your school don’t have to be licensed broadcaster to join either group.

4. LPFM Coverage Highlights from Radio Survivor

• Don’t be discouraged – We dispel 2 LPFM myths
• Second Low Power FM filing window? Don’t count on it
• 10 Reasons Why College Radio Stations Should Apply for LPFM Licenses
• College Radio and LPFM – An Archive of Radio Survivor’s First Twitter Chat
• The FCC Low Power FM application: a screen shot tour
• Resources for College Radio Stations Applying for LPFM licenses
• FCC announces updated procedures for Low Power FM window
• Democracy Now on “the largest expansion of community radio in US history”
• Are you “bona fide”? Eight fun factoids from the FCC’s Low Power FM decision
• FCC’s LPFM order will make 2013 a good year for community radio
• FCC acts to preserve space for new low power community radio stations
• LPFM expansion: it’s official!
• FCC Awards Full-Power Licenses to 5 LPFMs, Plus 52 More Orgs

All LPFM coverage on Radio Survivor

5. Additional LPFM Resources

• The FCC’s LPFM page
• The FCC’s August 20, 2013 Webinar on LPFM
• Resources and Tools for LPFM from Prometheus Radio Project.
• Online training webinars from Prometheus Radio Project.
• myLPFM.com helps you find a LPFM-ready frequency in your city or town
• RFree is free and open software for community radio applicants and the engineers who support them. RFree helps users find available channels and gather information for their FCC applications. (PDF User’s Guide)
• DIYmedia.net – 55 Days and Counting: Informative Events for LPFM Applicants
• How To Launch Your Own Low Power FM Station – The Guidebook from Free Press and Prometheus Radio Project [PDF]
• Brown Paper Ticket’s guide to finding public agency funding [PDF].