What is Part 15 radio broadcasting?
In general, the Code of Federal Regulations is a compilation of all final regulations issued by federal agencies in the United States. These regulations are divided into numbered titles covering a multitude of areas. Title 47 is the area of these regulations that specifically address the area of Telecommunications. The portion of these regulations that we are concerned with is Part 15, which covers a variety of radio frequency devices.
The Part 15 regulations are divided into seven subparts. The subpart of interest to us is Subpart C, which covers the use of intentional radiators. In general, an intentional radiator would be considered the antenna portion of a transmission system. In the case of the Part 15 broadcaster, the intentional radiator may consist of an antenna in a free radiating AM or FM band transmission system, the coaxial cable utilized in a "leaky" or radiating coax cable AM or FM band transmission system or the electrical power lines utilized in an AM band carrier-current transmission system.
The Part 15 regulations also outline details regarding field strength, power, transmitter frequency accuracy and permitted harmonic and spurious emission limits. These regulations apply to both Part 15 AM and FM systems whether they are constructed using a kit, home made or commercially available transmitter. It is our suggestion that a Part 15 certified radio transmitter be utilized whenever possible.
The most often quoted regulations that commonly affect the Part 15 broadcaster operating in the AM and/or FM broadcast bands include 15.209, 15.219, 15.221 and 15.239. The reference section of the site includes links to the full text of the Part 15 regulations, which should be reviewed and observed for full legal compliance.
Do I require a license to operate a Part 15 radio station?
Individuals, businesses and educational institutions are free to operate a fully compliant Part 15 station without a license. Devices that fall into those classified under Part 15 regulations do not require any license whatsoever. Common devices that are certified under Part 15 include the wireless modulator that connects your portable music player to your in-car FM radio - some people utilize these devices to build a Part 15 compliant FM station hobby station.
The Federal Communications Commission has no procedure or policy for registering or even dealing with Part 15 stations. The FCC does not need (or want) to hear from Part 15 stations for this very reason. They will contact you if your station is believed to be causing harmful interference or otherwise exceeding the limits specified in the regulations.
Can I play advertising on a Part 15 radio station?
There are no laws that prevent you from airing advertising messages on Part 15 radio stations. Many who operate stations air advertising as a way to earn some money to keep their stations running. Real estate agents will often obtain a "sponsor", whose message is incorporated into the audio program of a low power transmitter operating at a client's property. This often allows the agency or broker to recover the costs involved with purchasing the transmitter. With enough clients it is possible to eventually pay off the transmitter turning sponsorship message earnings into profit.
