FCC Window for Non-Commercial Reserve Band FM Translators to Open on August 11-25. Limited Freeze on Non-Reserve Ban Filings Starting July 10th

The FCC has released a Public Notice announcing a filing window for new non-commercial educational reserved band FM translator construction permit applications.  This is the first-ever filing window for NCE reserved band FM translator station construction permit applications.  According to the Public Notice:

“The filing window will open at 12:01 a.m. ET on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, and close at 6:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.  The Bureau will only accept Translator Applications for channels in the band reserved for NCE FM broadcasting (Channel Nos. 201-220; 88.1 – 91.9 MHz) (reserved band) during the window.”

In conjunction with this filing window, the Commission will not accept reserved band and non-reserved band low power FM (LPFM) station, FM translator station, and FM booster station minor modification applications after 11:59 p.m. ET, July 10, 2026.  The freeze will continue in effect until the close of the window.

Interested stations should familiarize themselves with the application process set out in the Public Notice. 

You can access the Public Notice here.

Also Interested applicants may monitor the Audio Division Web Page for information and developments.