FCC Plans First-Ever Filing Window for New NCE Reserved Band FM Translator Permits 
Action Will Help Strengthen Localism and Continued Growth in the Band
   
WASHINGTON, February 18, 2026—Today, the Federal Communications Commission is taking steps to support noncommercial broadcasting and preserve the airwaves for future local and community-focused services.  With the adoption of today’s Public Notice, the FCC is structuring a future, first-ever filing window for new FM translator construction permits in the “reserved” portion of the FM band.

The “reserved” portion of the FM band at 88–92 MHz is set aside for community, educational, and public service content, and is home to a wide range of noncommercial radio services.  In this future window, the Commission will provide the first opportunity for noncommercial FM, low power FM and noncommercial AM stations to obtain a noncommercial translator and extend the services these stations provide to the public.  

The Commission has employed application caps or eligibility restrictions in prior application windows to promote efficiency, curb speculative applications, and expedite the processing of applications and expansion of new service while preserving spectrum and future licensing opportunities.  The 10-application limit proved to be an effective procedural safeguard and helped restrict the number of mutually exclusive applications, prevented mass filings, and allowed the Commission to efficiently process and grant thousands of new NCE FM applications.  The Commission has also imposed eligibility restrictions and limits in prior filing windows to be consistent with the mandates of the Local Community Radio Act of 2010, which require the Commission to ensure that licensing is available for all secondary services. 

Today’s Public Notice directs the Media Bureau to open the first-ever filing window for applications for new NCE reserved band FM translator station construction permits.  In doing so, the Commission seeks comment on eligibility requirements and application limits to prevent gamesmanship and ensure fair access to licenses.  These actions help strengthen localism and support the continued growth of noncommercial service on the FM band. 

Action by the Commission February 18, 2026 by Public Notice (FCC 26-10).  Chairman Carr, Commissioners Gomez and Trusty approving.  Chairman Carr issuing a separate statement.

MB Docket No. 26-20

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