The FCC has announced a new study to consider the restrictions imposed by CC&Rs and other HOA restrictions against homeowners erecting communications antennas.

“This study would “use the expertise of stakeholder entities and organizations” to recommend how to best use radio amateurs in emergency communications and disaster relief efforts, and how to best utilize the Amateur Radio Service in coordination with the federal government in these efforts. In addition, the study would also discuss the effects of unreasonable or unnecessary private land use restrictions on residential antenna installations and recommend ways to remove such impediments……..

As part of their study, the FCC has solicited public comment in a public notice DA 12-523 on two specific areas related to the study.  There is a 45-day deadline for public comments on the public notice.

All comments must be received by the FCC no later than May 17, 2012. ”

If your ability to participate in ARES, RACES, SKYWARN, CERT, or other emergency and disaster relief communications has been limited because the inability to have adequate antennas due to CC&Rs, you are asked to provide that information to the ARRL.

The ARRL has posted an announcement calling for all Amateur Radio operators that have been impacted by these neighborhood restrictions to submit their comments. You can do so by clicking the link below:

HAM OPERATORS SUBMIT YOUR COMMENTS HERE

ARRL is also gathering information concerning actual emergency communications that any operator has been involved in. You can submit this information HERE