How is the radio spectrum regulated?
The ITU Radio Regulations, an international treaty revised at World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs), allocate frequency bands to radio services in three ITU regions and set technical rules such as unwanted emission limits.[1][2] National regulators implement them; in the US, the FCC publishes the Table of Frequency Allocations and equipment authorization rules in 47 CFR Part 2, with service-specific rules in other parts (e.g., Part 15 unlicensed devices, Part 97 amateur).[3]
What are allocations, allotments and assignments?
An allocation designates a band for a service (e.g., mobile, fixed, broadcasting); an allotment plans its use by area or country; an assignment authorizes a specific station. Services can be primary or secondary; secondary services must not cause harmful interference to primary ones.[1]
What are spurious emission limits?
ITU-R SM.329 defines the spurious domain and categories of limits (e.g., Category A, B); national and standard-specific limits (3GPP, ETSI, FCC) apply to products. Out-of-band emissions near the channel are governed by masks.[2]
How does equipment get authorized?
In the US: certification through a Telecommunication Certification Body, or Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity for eligible devices, both based on testing to the applicable rules.[3] In the EU, the Radio Equipment Directive requires conformity assessment against harmonized standards.
Frequently asked questions
What is a WRC?
A World Radiocommunication Conference that revises the Radio Regulations, typically every three to four years.
What are ITU regions?
Region 1 (Europe, Africa, Middle East, northern Asia), Region 2 (Americas), Region 3 (Asia-Pacific).
Who regulates spectrum in the US?
The FCC for non-federal use and NTIA for federal use.
See also
References
Online sources accessed October 21, 2026; printed works cited by edition. See all sources.
- “Radio Regulations”. International Telecommunication Union (ITU-R). 2024 edition.
- “Recommendation ITU-R SM.329: Unwanted emissions in the spurious domain”. ITU-R. current version.
- “47 CFR Part 2: Frequency Allocations and Radio Treaty Matters; General Rules and Regulations”. U.S. Federal Communications Commission, via eCFR. current.