The Planning and Natural Resources Department has lifted the nearly four-year moratorium on new telecommunications tower construction with updated rules and regulations, and is ready to take applications.
The moratorium began in December 2008 when DPNR saw a marked increase in the number of permit applications for construction of communication towers throughout the territory, according to a statement from DPNR, noting that at the time it was necessary for the regulatory language to be updated in order to keep abreast of the present level of advancement in the telecommunication industry while balancing the safety and general welfare of the community.
The moratorium was originally prompted largely by concerns over the proliferation of towers throughout the territory, particularly on St. Thomas.
During the moratorium, the department conducted a comprehensive study and analysis of the applicable zoning and development regulations required for implementation.
Under a law passed last year, DPNR now has broad regulatory authority to set height, setback and other requirements, and the ability to impose fines on violators. Along with creating an application procedure, it requires DPNR to rule on tower applications within 90 days, or within 150 days if a hearing is required.
Since the law’s passage, DPNR has been working to create the basic regulatory framework. In December, Gov. John deJongh Jr. signed the Wireless Facility and Wireless Support Structure Rules, clearing the way to lift the moratorium.
DPNR announced Monday its Divisions of Building Permits and Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning began accepting applications for the construction of telecommunication towers Feb. 1.
Applications are available at the division. Applications must be reviewed by the Comprehensive and Coastal Zone Planning Division to make sure the site meets zoning requirements.
Call Planning at 774-3320 on St. Thomas; 773-1082 on St. Croix; or 693-8735 on St. John.
