Streetlight Small Cell Program

Streetlight poles have become a valuable asset as telecommunications companies seek to expand their infrastructure for 5G wireless service and connectivity. This infrastructure is a system of wireless telecommunications facilities, also known as small cells facilities (SCF) that can be mounted on top of streetlight poles.

Public Works is fully compliant with the Federal Communications Commission Ruling and Order and accepts applications to install small cell infrastructure on County streetlights.

All applications for small cells on streetlights will require (1) a road wireless permit and (2) a street lighting plan.

For more information on the permitting process, please visit:

https://pw.lacounty.gov/projects/wireless-information/

Street Lighting plans will be reviewed for streetlighting requirements, structural feasibility, and electrical requirements.

• Small Cell Street Light Design Guidelines
• Streetlight Design Guidelines
• Sample Small Cell Plans

Applications can be filed though EPICLA. Applications for small cells located on a scenic route, area of ecological significance, or in the coastal zone will require additional review by the Department of Regional Planning. For streetlights within the County Maintained Lighting District (CLMD) but owned by Southern California Edison (SCE), Public Works will review the application and send authorization to SCE. Applications for CLMD streetlights that are owned by the County will not be accepted until a Streetlight Master License Agreement (SMLA) is entered by the applicant and Public Works. Small cells on SCE owned streetlights to be transferred to Public Works ownership are also subject to a SMLA, and shall be removed unless a SMLA has been authorized.

For questions regarding zoning, please contact Regional Planning at zoningldcc@planning.lacounty.gov or (213) 974-6411.

For questions regarding road wireless permits, please contact Land Development Division – Permits Section at btadele@dpw.lacounty.gov or (626) 458-7027.

For more information on the Streetlight Master License Agreement and to view a sample agreement, proceed to the License Agreement page.