HOAs, Landlords, and Your Right to an Antenna
The other day, while helping a customer in Byron Center, I ran into a familiar question before the antenna installation: “Hey, doesn’t my HOA need to approve this antenna?” I chuckle inside every time I get this question (but it’s still a great question)—I chuckle because the HOAs and landlords lost that battle in 1996! That’s right, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) took the remote control out of their hands nearly three decades ago. If you want free local TV, or satellite internet, the only permission you need is your own (well, and a decent antenna installer😉). And yes, this does include Starlink internet and satellite users.
Here’s the deal: In 1996, the FCC implemented the Over-the-Air Reception Devices (OTARD) rule (47 C.F.R. § 1.4000) to stop HOAs, landlords, and property managers from restricting antennas for TV, satellite, and certain fixed wireless services. The rule covers antennas less than 39 inches (or any size in Alaska) and lets homeowners or tenants install them on property they control—whether that’s a roof, balcony, or backyard. But let’s be honest, no one wants to see 16 foot antennas all across the roofscapes of their neighborhood. That’s why the 1 meter law exists; it’s a happy medium and allows for smaller aerials to tuck away better, yet still work.
Images of My HOA Installations
Who’s Affected by the OTARD Rule?
Homeowners
: If you own the house or have an exclusive-use space, like a roof or yard, you’re good to go.Renters
: As long as you have an exclusive-use area—like a balcony or private patio—you can install an antenna.Condos and Co-ops
: The rule applies to residents in townhomes, condos, or manufactured homes if the antenna is placed in a space only they control (your half of the roof).
Landlords or HOAs cannot block your installation unless they meet very specific safety or historic preservation criteria. For example, they can’t ban antennas just because they don’t like the look of them. (Federal Communications Commission) (Hirzel Law)
Why Did the FCC Get Involved?
The FCC wasn’t just being nice—it stepped in for serious reasons. Back then, some HOAs were blocking TV antennas, making it hard for people to receive local broadcasts. This meant homeowners could miss out on emergency alerts and weather updates. Imagine living in a community where a tornado’s coming, but you miss the broadcast because your HOA thinks antennas are ugly! The FCC said, “Nope, not happening,” and the OTARD rule was born.
Here’s What You Need to Know About the OTARD Rule
- HOAs Can’t Stop You: They aren’t allowed to ban or delay your antenna installation without a valid safety reason. (no board meetings necessary)
- No Costly Red Tape: They can’t enforce approval costs or drown you in approval forms.
- Signal Quality Matters: HOAs can’t interfere with your ability to get clear reception from local stations.
- Safety and Historic Preservation: They can only restrict antennas if there’s a legitimate safety risk (like a poorly secured antenna flying off the roof, towers, large antennas bigger than 1 meter) or if the area has historical preservation status. Keep this in mind when moving forward.
Got an HOA that’s still causing static? You can file a complaint with the FCC, and they’ll set things straight.
👉 Learn more about your rights and the OTARD rule here: FCC OTARD Overview
👉 File a complaint against your HOA here: FCC Consumer Complaint Center
Antenna Pro Tip: Cut the Cord, Not the Rules
Next time your HOA says, “No antennas allowed,” just smile and let them know the FCC already handled that vote in 1996. Whether you’re in Byron Center, Grand Rapids, Holland or beyond, we’ve got you covered. Need help with installation? Contact us—we know the FCC rules inside and out, so you don’t have to.
