- in United States
On May 11, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that it will auction 132 full power FM radio construction permits in February 2027 and solicited comment on procedures for the auction. Comments are due June 9, 2026, and reply comments are due June 24, 2026.
A list of the construction permits available for auction is available here. The highest proposed opening bid is $30,000 for a Class A construction permit on Channel 241 in Visalia, California (south of Fresno) and for a Class C2 construction permit on Channel 277 in Wharton, Texas (southwest of Houston).
The upcoming auction (Auction 114) will be the first auction of FM construction permits since 2021 and the first to use the FCC’s new application and bidding systems. As in previous auctions, applicants who wish to bid will need to file a short-form application (FCC Form 175) that includes ownership information and numerous certifications.
The FCC seeks public comment on the specific procedures for Auction 114, including:
- the format, bidding rounds, activity rules and waivers, and other aspects of how the auction will be conducted;
- minimum opening bids, default payments, and upfront payments for each permit;
- how to limit pre-auction information disclosures to protect bidder identities; and
- whether applicants should certify that they have read and understand the procedures for Auction 114 in their short-form applications.
The FCC simultaneously announced a freeze on all applications and rulemaking proposals that would modify or interfere with the 132 FM allotments included in the auction.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
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