RPV Approves Rule Changes Aimed At Bringing More Cell Sites To City

RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA — Wireless carriers will have more flexibility to install cellular equipment in Rancho Palos Verdes after the City Council approved changes Tuesday aimed at encouraging the construction of additional wireless infrastructure.

The council approved amendments to Chapter 12.18 of the city's municipal code, which regulates wireless telecommunications facilities installed in public rights-of-way.

Among the changes, the city said the maximum permitted height for small wireless facilities will increase by two feet and carriers will be allowed to install equipment on traffic signals.

The amendments also provide carriers with greater flexibility over requirements involving underground equipment, photo renderings and landscape plans, according to a City Council meeting summary released Wednesday.

City officials said the changes are intended to encourage carriers to install additional wireless telecommunications facilities in Rancho Palos Verdes.

Push For Better Cell Coverage

Improving wireless coverage has been an ongoing issue for the city, which has been considering changes to its regulations as it seeks to encourage carriers to expand their networks.

The City Council previously considered a broader package of proposed changes affecting wireless facilities in both public rights-of-way and on private property.

During that process, council members considered issues including the size and height of wireless equipment, where facilities could be installed, undergrounding requirements, visual impacts and notification of nearby residents.

The proposal that returned to the council Tuesday was limited to Chapter 12.18 and wireless facilities in the public right-of-way.

According to the Sept. 1 agenda, the ordinance was designed to encourage wireless development while updating the city's regulatory framework and permitting standards to comply with federal and California law.

The council's action Tuesday introduced the ordinance containing the amendments. The city subsequently announced Wednesday that the council had approved the changes.

Rancho Palos Verdes maintains a Wireless Telecommunications Facilities in the Public Right-of-Way resource with information about the city's regulations, current wireless applications and maps showing existing and proposed carrier networks.