FCC Digital Sign Compliance

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Does Your Digital Sign Meet FCC Requirements?

Are your customers at risk for fines from the federal government? If you purchase, sell or install digital signs you may be surprised to learn you’re subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations regarding radio transmissions. Companies that do not understand these rules can face fines, have imports blocked, or face lengthy investigations. Hear from FCC officials and specialized FCC lawyers to learn how to ensure you and your customers stay out of trouble. Specific topics include testing, marketing, labeling, importation, use restrictions, record keeping — and what to do if the FCC enforcement Bureau sends you a Letter of Inquiry.

Recorded Webinar (Members Only)

Speakers: Leslie Barnes, FCC Enforcement Bureau; Rashmi Doshi, FCC Office of Engineering and Technology; Paul Margie, Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis LLP; Rob Carter, Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis LLP; and Jason Neal, Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis LLP

Price: $0.00 (members only)

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) continues to cite businesses because digital signs are interfering with the wireless spectrum, creating problems with commercial and public wireless devices. This may occur because the signs are operating at Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) levels not allowed under U.S. federal law and in violation of FCC regulations.

Click here for frequently asked questions to better understand these issues.

ISA urges all sign, graphics and visual communications companies to comply with relevant federal law, including FCC regulations. A few things to know:

Digital devices, including digital signs, sold in the U.S. must be tested by accredited laboratories under normal operating conditions to demonstrate compliance with FCC rules. These devices are required to carry a two-part warning label or certificate of compliance, according to Subpart B of Section 15 of Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
If a digital sign is found to violate either the equipment authorization rules or to cause interference to the wireless spectrum, the sign’s owner or manufacturer may have to pay a fine. If the sign cannot be brought into compliance, it can no longer be used. Other penalties may be included for willful violation of the FCC’s rules or citations.
Consult your attorney to determine the applicable requirements under U.S. law for your products and services, or for advice on how to work with your manufacturer/supplier to ensure compliance.

ISA is developing educational programming to help the sign, graphics and visual communications industry better understand compliance responsibilities under the FCC’s rules and precedent.

If you have any questions about complying with the FCC regulations, please contact David Hickey, ISA vice president of advocacy at (703) 797-0479.

FCC Compliance FAQs

Codes & Regulations

FCC Digital Sign Compliance

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