Standards for Antenna Design Get Initial OK

Seeking to avoid unsightly communication equipment on buildings, the City Council has tentatively approved new regulations and design standards for cellular telephone companies.

Planning Services Manager Andrew Perea said because of the proliferation of varying antennas for cellular phones and pagers, the city needed design and development standards.

The city already has nine wireless communication antennas, some of which have been criticized as ugly, Two antenna applications are pending.

The ordinance, granted preliminary approval Tuesday, prohibits communication equipment in areas zoned for residential, agricultural and public institution use, such as schools and hospitals.

In addition, antennas must blend with the building or structure and be screened by a facade.

Perea also said equipment must be at least 25 feet from residential properties and use of new technology, such as smaller antennas, is encouraged.

Perea said a follow-up ordinance addressing antennas mounted on single poles 45 feet or taller will be brought to the council for adoption within six to eight months.