The Enforcement Bureau has two divisions responsible for handling broadcast complaints. The Investigations and Hearings Division is responsible for resolving complaints of non-technical broadcast violations such as complaints alleging broadcast of obscene, profane and/or indecent material, violations of the FCC's rules regarding broadcast of hoaxes, licensee-conducted contests, broadcast of telephone conversation, and public inspection file requirements.
The Spectrum Enforcement Division resolves complaints of technical violations such as unauthorized operation of a broadcast station, violation of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) rules, antenna structure registration, marking and lighting rules, and operation with excessive power or at an unauthorized location.
Types of Complaints
- Broadcast of Obscene, Profane and/or Indecent Material Complaints
- Broadcast of Hoaxes
- Licensee-Conducted Contests
- Broadcast of Telephone Conversations
- Public File Requirements
- Payola and Sponsorship Identification
- Unlicensed Operation of Broadcast Stations
- Emergency Alert System
- Antenna Structure Information
- Broadcast Interference
- The FCC Enforcement Bureau: A Broadcaster's Guide
