Bill > A03147

This bill enacts the "Wireless Facility Siting Act," which establishes a comprehensive statewide framework for municipalities to regulate the placement, construction, and modification of cellular communication towers and facilities. The legislation provides a uniform process for municipal review of wireless facility permit applications, requiring public hearings, written notifications to nearby property owners, and detailed application requirements. Key provisions include mandating that wireless facilities minimize visual impact, comply with FCC regulations, maintain security, avoid proximity to schools, and prioritize co-location of equipment on existing structures when possible. The bill allows municipalities to impose reasonable application fees and require independent technical reviews, and includes specific guidelines for facility design, such as preserving existing vegetation and avoiding artificial illumination. Notably, the law enables local governments to adopt more stringent regulations than the state minimum standards, while providing a standardized framework for communities that lack existing local laws governing wireless facility siting. The legislation aims to balance the need for quality wireless communication services with local aesthetic and community concerns, giving municipalities more control over the placement of telecommunications infrastructure.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3147