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Providing 802.11 Access Across State Lines?

Posted by Cliff on from the seeking-the-hidden-legislative-booby-traps dept.

kmleon asks: "Where can I find decent information on how to provide wireless internet service using an unlicensed technology (such as the 802.11 variants) across a state border? There are a few hundred people in this rural area that are desperate to use our service since no one else can give them broadband, but I have no idea how to offer that without knowing if we'd be getting in trouble with who knows how many government agencies. Anyone had any experience with doing this? The problem is that all our backbone is on one side of the border, with just strong enough of a signal to give service about 2-5 miles on the other side of the border. Is it just as simple as registering the business in both states? Which agency (FCC, FTC, or other someone else) could I contact for help? None of their websites have provided me with any helpful information. Thanks for any useful input."

4 of 18 comments (clear)

  1. Like you said by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Informative

    It's unlicensed. As long as you don't violate the power specs, you'll be fine on that front. The FCC is a federal agency, and I don't know of any states that have added extra regulation. Just setup your business in the state you'll be transmitting from/connecting to the rest of the internet, and be on your way.

  2. IANAL, but... by Rick+the+Red · · Score: 4, Informative

    If the issue here is "crossing state lines" then two points:
    1) The FCC already took care of the radio issue (as AC pointed out above). Even transmissions send and recieved within a single state fall under the "interstate commerce" clause of the Constitution, and thus under the FCC's jurisdiction.
    2) Business licenses and taxes are another issue. You may need a business license, and you many need to pay sales or other taxes, in your customer's state. Seek local advice. There may be government agencies who provide free help to small businesses with just these issues -- ask.

    --
    If all this should have a reason, we would be the last to know.
  3. See FCC regs by mbstone · · Score: 3, Informative

    The FCC regulates radio frequency transmissions, states and localities may not. See Part 15 of the FCC Regs which regulate low power (= 100 mW RF output) devices. Your local governmental busybodies may (or may not) regulate your business license / zoning / etc. as in any other business situation. Call your attorney for an appointment (duh).

  4. Try asking the same question here.... by oobeleck · · Score: 5, Informative
    This is a great community resource.
    If anyone has done this kind of stuff before these guys/gals have.