Ongoing Class A / LPTV / TV Translator Filing Dates

In accordance with its earlier Public Notice, the announced schedule of dates is continuing for Class A, LPTV and TV translator stations.  On December 18th Class A, LPTV and TV translator stations were able to begin filing major change applications on a first come, first served basis specifying relocations of not more than 75 miles, in addition to filing any minor change applications.  On January 29, 2026 at 6p ET, a temporary application filing freeze will go into effect for Class A, LPTV and TV translator station major change applications (minor change applications will not be frozen and may continue to be filed until 6p ET on March 12, 2026). Finally, on March 19, 2026 at 12:01 am ET, the major modification filing freeze will be lifted, without limit or restriction, to permit the filing of Class A, LPTV and TV translator major change applications and acceptance of applications for new LPTV and TV translator stations.  Minor change applications can also be filed.

The application form for new LPTV and TV translator stations will not become available in LMS until approximately a week or so before the March 19, 2026 start date for such applications.

For any major change or new station applications, certain local notice requirements must be met, but the trigger date for those obligations is when the FCC issues a public notice accepting an application for filing.  The form of the FCC’s notice may come in the normal daily releases, or in a separately-issued document. Applicants should carefully monitor the FCC’s daily and other releases to be sure local notice obligations are met.  Beginning local notice too soon will negate  the effectiveness of the notice.