Planning commission recommends approval of 190‑foot communication tower with FAA, FCC conditions

The Dickinson County Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of CUP 26‑06, a conditional‑use permit for a roughly 190‑foot self‑supporting communication tower intended to improve cellular coverage in a rural area.

Staff told the commission the proposal is structurally similar to a tower heard last month but from a different carrier and said municipalities may regulate setbacks and structural safety only; federal oversight from the FAA and FCC governs tower siting and lighting. "It is below that 200 foot threshold that the FAA requires," the applicant, Patrick Erwin, said, adding, "We do have that FAA determination of no hazard."

The staff report noted no written public comments had been received and described that a carrier within a quarter‑mile had raised concerns about market competition rather than technical interference. Commissioners asked about height, lightning protection and whether the tower would be lit; the applicant said the design includes a 10‑foot lightning rod and that the structure is marketed for colocation by multiple carriers.

A commissioner moved and a staff member seconded a recommendation to approve CUP 26‑06 with conditions requiring final FAA and FCC approvals prior to issuance of a building permit. The motion carried by voice vote.

The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the county commission as required for zoning changes and condition uses; staff said any final permit will be contingent on documentation of FAA/FCC approvals and compliance with local setback and structural conditions.