Build Radio Deed For Free

Despite opposition from neighbors in south Wheaton, a proposed 42-foot-high ham radio tower can be built in a resident's back yard under federal law without any sign-off from local officials.

The bottom line. According to the OTARD law, HOAs cannot stop you from installing an antenna that meets regulations.

Despite opposition from neighbors in south Wheaton, a proposed 42-foot-high ham radio tower can be built in a resident's back yard under federal law without any sign-off from local officials.

Towers are for reception only unless2026 If you have a tower, you wouldn't be able to broadcast2026 that would be against the FCC's regulations unless you had a license. But don't dismiss the idea of a tower in your yard.

The bottom line. According to the OTARD law, HOAs cannot stop you from installing an antenna that meets regulations.

It is worth nothing that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) passed a ruling that provides that local governments must reasonably accommodate amateur radio operations.This means that the governance of ham radio antennas by community associations is not subject to federal regulation.

Under the rule, condominium, homeowners' associations, and landlords cannot unreasonably restrict the use of antennas designed to receive wireless cable or local television broadcasts or satellite dishes not exceeding one meter in diameter.

The bottom line. According to the OTARD law, HOAs cannot stop you from installing an antenna that meets regulations.

For a typical tower less than 100', the whole thing can cost between $5-10,000 including the tower. The major costs are the tower itself, the concrete and labor.

On July 13, 2016, the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce gave its stamp of approval to a compromise version of H.R. 1301, the Amateur Radio Parity Act. HAM radio operators are prohibited from placing antennas on common property.