Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Use Wireless topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
County staff seek planning commission input on wireless communication facility code update
Summary
At a March 4 study session Arapahoe County staff presented a draft Land Development Code amendment to retitle and expand 'commercial mobile radio service' rules into broader wireless communication facility regulations and sought the commission’s direction before public hearings.
Arapahoe County planning staff on March 4 asked the Planning Commission for feedback on a draft update to the county’s wireless communication regulations, moving the Land Development Code’s references from “commercial mobile radio service” (CMRS) to a broader wireless communication facility (WCF) framework.
Ernie Rose of the Planning Division presented the draft code amendment, which proposes new definitions, procedures for wireless communications facilities (including roof-mounted and tower alternatives) and a new abandonment-and-revocation permit section. The board of county commissioners reviewed the draft on Jan. 21, 2025 and instructed staff to proceed; the Planning Commission was asked to review the draft before public referral and hearings.
Rose said the update is intended to include all forms of wireless communication previously referenced as CMRS, to consolidate small-cell and other WCF rules and to add clearer procedures—including removal of abandoned facilities. He noted the code table changes proposed and the creation of a section 3-3.8 (definitions, procedures and abandonment/revocation language).
Commissioners asked clarifying questions during the study session. Commissioner Miller asked whether amateur (ham) radio or private two-way radio installations would be affected; staff said those uses may be categorized differently and that the draft focuses on commercial/subject-to-permit wireless facilities rather than private residential amateur setups. Commissioner Latsis asked how the update treats facilities in the public right-of-way versus facilities on private property; staff explained the county adopted small-cell regulations for the right-of-way in 2019 and the current draft covers WCFs on private property and clarifies when easements or setbacks are required.
No formal action was taken at the study session; staff requested direction on whether to proceed to public referral and hearings. Staff indicated they will incorporate the commission’s feedback and return the draft for the formal referral and hearing process required by the Land Development Code.
The discussion highlighted common public concerns such as siting in residential areas, setbacks, easements and right-of-way siting. Commissioners asked staff to ensure private amateur radio users are treated appropriately and to clarify when utilities or easements are required for rooftop or attached facilities.
