Answer
Nov 16, 2017 - 11:10 PM
Unfortunately, there is no universal answer in the US. Each state is different and each muni is different. Some states have clear guidance on maximum rates and pole attachment rates, others do not. Many states also have franchise rights negotiated at the city level which further defines what a city can or cannot charge for. Given the sheer number of locations, it becomes very difficult to price them individually, even though all locations aren't the same.
From our standpoint, when we work with a city to help them evaluate small cell policies and lease rates, the starting point is the regulatory environment. What does state law provide? What does the state public utilities commission allow or not? Is there an underlying franchise agreement? What have other cities in that state negotiated successfully or not? What does the city's own zoning ordinance allow for? What pole infrastructure in the city is owned by the city and which is owned by the utility companies? Are the utility companies publicly owned or are they investor owned?
I know that this isn't the answer you were looking for- but that is because there is no simple answer to this question.
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