By Brett Reall
Small Cells are currently a hot topic in the wireless community, and are becoming a topic of interest for local governments. A small cell is just like it sounds - a small cellular antenna, typically designed to provide cellular coverage to a smaller geographic area than a cell tower or full rooftop cell site. While many small cells are installed on utility poles or street and traffic lights; small cells can be installed almost anywhere power can be placed. Most prefer to have fiber installed as well, however there are varying methods of "backhaul" (transferring the received signals back to the network).
As these placements require approval of local governments, the approval process is currently hot topic within the small cell industry. In some areas state or federal regulations differ from local requirements. Until some consistency can be implemented to address concerns of local governements while serving the needs of the wireless carriers; it is anticipated that the permitting process will be a source of frustration for both local governments and cellular providers for the forseeable future.
From the standpoint of the local goverments and utility companies, many items need to be addressed in small cell installations, including:
- Small Cell Aesthetics.
- Small Cell Equipment Placement.
- Capacity of Pole/Light Post to Support Small Cells.
- Growth/Change of Small Cells Over Time.
- Utilities Needed to Serve Small Cells.
- Application Intake Procedures for Small Cell Use and Building Permits.
1. Small Cell Aesthetics. While the small cell equipment is just that - small, there is generally a substantial amount of equipment required to support the small cell antenna. Radios, battery backup, cooling units, surge protectors, etc., may be required. This equipment can be mounted on the ground or on the pole, however many times the aesthetics are not well defined, leaving room for interpretation.
We have heard more than one story about small cell installations where equipment boxes are installed several feet off the ground creating a hazard for pedestrians, or A/C units and flashing equipment/logo lights placed near residential windows, causing disruptions for the building occupants.
2. Small Cell Equipment Placement. Wireless carriers typically place their equipment in a location with the best 'line of sight' for the intended coverage area. This generally means that the antenna is also easily seen. Local governments typically do not know what camoflauge options exist for small cell antennas, or what options can be used to minimize the amount of space taken by the equipment. Many options exist for disguising small cells; our consultants can assist with identifying these options and minimizing the impact of small cell antennas and their associated equipment.
3. Capacity of Pole/Light Post to Support Small Cells. Many times it is simply assumed that the utility/light post can support the small cells and associated equipment. In recent discussions with a large utility company, it was found that many poles can be overloaded with equipment. A structural analysis should be performed to determine if the structure can support the proposed load.
4. Growth/Change of Small Cells Over Time. Historically, antenna sites have gained equipment over time as increased demand requires additional capacity. Some companies have already filed permits to utilize structures in the public right-of-way for small cell antennas. What is currently anticipated to be a placement for 2-3 small cell antennas, if unsupervised, could easily become a placement of 8-10 or more antennas. Local governments need to understand the maximum impact that could occur prior to entering into any agreements.
5. Application Intake Procedures for Small Cell Use and Building Permits. Generally speaking, Small Cells will need power and "backhaul". Backhaul can be provided in several ways, typically via fiber, microwave, or telephone lines. Power may already exist to the pole, fiber may need to be run to the pole, and microwave may create additional aesthetic impact. Understanding the option of choice prevents misunderstandings during the term of any agreements.
6. Small Cell Application Intake Procedure. Switching gears somewhat, the industry expects a large number of small cell antennas to be installed in most metropolitan areas. Legislation already exists in most areas regarding the timing within which permitting offices must approve or deny applications for permits. Having a good process for reviewing applications is critical to avoid what has been termed by some legislation instances where an application is "deemed approved" by default, regardless of whether the permitting entity has reviewed the application.
Cellular infrastructure is a highly specialized industry already. Small cells promise to add additional layers of complexity to the field. We highly recommend working with groups who understand the industry and how all the pieces come together. Gunnerson Consulting has the ability to assist local governments with all of the items above, or with any questions related to wireless infrastructure. Contact us today with your questions regarding small cell antennas, and wireless infrastructure.