Established in 1996 by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) via authority from the United States Congress, the Over-the-Air Reception Devices (OTARD) rule (47 C.F.R. Section 1.4000) prohibits governmental and private restrictions that unreasonably impair the ability of satellite antenna users to install, maintain, or use over-the-air reception devices.

The Regulatory Affairs Department works to monitor, enforce, and educate users, installers, as well as enforcing entities on the OTARD rule. 

If you believe you are being unfairly targeted by a city, county, homeowner or community association, or rental property, please consult the following resources:

FCC fact sheet on the placement of antennas

SBCA one-pager on the OTARD rule and subsequent rights

If, after consulting the above resources, you still face challenges installing your satellite dish, please click here to submit a complaint via our online form.