Brenda Ann wrote:
"D Peter Maus" wrote in message
...
Brenda Ann wrote:
wrote in message
...
On Jul 31, 4:15 pm, wrote:
It's not going to be any surprise for anyone who watches over-the-air
TV. Every channel here advertises the change all day and all night
long. It is constantly going across the screen on a banner, they keep
announcing it -- there is just no way these people don't know what is
coming. I know people in their 80's and 90's who already have a
digital tuner or converter box. Central California has the largest
over-the-air population of anywhere in the US, and everyone I talk to
is well aware of what is coming. Yes, it might require an outdoor
antenna for some who now use an indoor antenna.
For many, an outdoor antenna is not an option. Just try getting
permission in a covenant community or an apartment complex to put up an
antenna.. It will be interesting, for sure, to see what does happen next
February. I suspect there will be a lot more than one might think that
will be caught without.



TV antennae are a protected species. FCC has ruled that no ordinances
nor CC&R's may be enforced infringing the right to put up an antenna to
receive OTA TV or small dish satellite.

Locally, a very restrictive community tried to prevent the installation
of an outdoor TV antenna. It took a couple of phone calls and a quote of
the regulations to get the HOA off the back of the homeowner. There was
another followup action to remove the newly installed antenna, but it
stands today. Now three years and counting.

FCC has been very clear about this...no one may prevent the installation
of an outdoor antenna for TV reception. Digital or otherwise.

Many HOA's and apartment owners skirt that by stating that 'cable is
available'.

And that's not relevant. FCC is quite clear. The right of an outdoor
antenna for OTA may not be restricted. Even if alternatives are available.


I know it stuck in Beaverton, OR. They started some years ago
to restrict outdoor antennas, as soon as cable came to town. Eventually, I
think they relented on 19" dishes, IF they could be disguised, but AFAIK,
never on OTA antennas.


If it stuck in Beaverton, there were other issues at play. Many
HOA's, when faced with the loss of the 'cable' argument claim safety
issues. Which then require inspections and individual rulings. And a lot
of wasted time. And few homeowners have the time, nor the resources to
fight an HOA which is well funded, and has lawyers on staff.

But the fact remains OTA TV antennae are a protected species. FCC is
clear on that.

They're also clear that small dish antennae are also protected.
Disguised or not.