Arapahoe County approves amendment to wireless rules, sets $645 fee for eligible‑facility letters

The Arapahoe County Board of Commissioners voted Sept. 8 to approve amendments to the Development Application Manual (case LDC26‑002) that update how wireless communication facility requests are reviewed and to adopt a staff‑recommended fee for determination letters.

Ernie Rose, energy planner in Public Works and Development, told the board the amendment retitles the county's Commercial Mobile Radio Service rules to Wireless Communication Facilities, creates new procedures and criteria for eligible facility requests (EFRs), adds workflow diagrams and establishes a 'shot clock' timeline. Rose said staff researched peer fees and "we arrived at a fee or a proposed fee of $645" to cover the hours needed to produce determination letters.

There was no public comment on the item and Commissioner Campbell moved to approve the resolution amending the Development Application Manual and planning review fee schedule; Commissioner Warren Gully seconded and the motion carried on a voice vote. Commissioners who spoke encouraged staff to use fee revenue to support program operations.

The amendment is intended to speed minor facility reviews and clarify the process for both providers and property owners; staff said the Planning Commission recommended approval after prior study sessions.