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Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Purpose ........................................................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Background History .................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Governance FCC Rules ............................................................................................................ 2
1.4 Plan Revision .............................................................................................................................. 2
2.0 Geographic Description ................................................................................................................. 3
2.1 Geographic Coverage ............................................................................................................... 3
2.2 Geographic Environment .......................................................................................................... 3
3.0 Use of the 700 MHz State Use Channels ................................................................................... 4
3.1 Description on Channel Usage ................................................................................................ 4
3.2 Fixed Base Radio Locations ..................................................................................................... 4
3.3 Mobile and Portable Radios...................................................................................................... 4
3.4 Talk-Around (or Direct) Mode ................................................................................................... 5
3.5 Campus Type Systems ............................................................................................................. 5
3.6 700 MHz Interoperability Channel Requirement ................................................................... 5
3.7 Narrowbanding Efficiencies ...................................................................................................... 5
3.8 Aircraft Use .................................................................................................................................. 6
3.9 Deployable System .................................................................................................................... 6
3.10 Vehicular Repeater .................................................................................................................... 6
4.0 Channel Allotment .......................................................................................................................... 7
4.1 Channels for SLERS Network .................................................................................................. 7
4.2 SLERS Mobile Radio System ................................................................................................... 7
4.3 SLERS Aircraft Project 25 Network ......................................................................................... 7
4.4 Florida Department of Law Enforcement ................................................................................ 7
4.5 Florida Highway Patrol .............................................................................................................. 8
4.6 Florida Division of Emergency Management ......................................................................... 8
4.7 Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission ............................................................................. 8
4.8 Florida Department of Corrections .......................................................................................... 8
4.9 Vehicular Repeaters .................................................................................................................. 8
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4.10 Public Safety Interoperable Communications Sites .............................................................. 8
4.11 Reserve ........................................................................................................................................ 9
4.12 Interagency Direct Mode ........................................................................................................... 9
4.13 Additional Channels for Eligible State Agencies ................................................................... 9
4.14 Miscellaneous Allotments.......................................................................................................... 9
4.15 Intrastate Dispute Resolution ................................................................................................... 9
4.16 Channel Plan Allotment Timeline ........................................................................................... 10
4.17 Channel Relinquishment ......................................................................................................... 10
5.0 Technical Parameters .................................................................................................................. 11
5.1 Spectrum Efficiency ................................................................................................................. 11
5.2 Interference Protection ............................................................................................................ 11
5.3 Encryption .................................................................................................................................. 11
5.4 Minimum System and Equipment Requirements ................................................................ 12
5.5 Project 25 ID Numbering ......................................................................................................... 12
6.0 Build-out Requirement ................................................................................................................. 13
6.1 Build-out Notification ................................................................................................................ 13
6.2 Statewide License Custodian ................................................................................................. 13
6.3 Submittal Requirements .......................................................................................................... 13
6.4 Approval Procedures – New Allotment ................................................................................. 14
6.5 System Modification ................................................................................................................. 15
7.0 Coordination with Adjacent States ............................................................................................. 16
7.1 Adjacent State Coordination Procedures ............................................................................. 16
7.2 Dispute Resolution Procedures with Adjacent States ........................................................ 16
8.0 700 MHz State Use Channel List ............................................................................................... 18
9.0 700 MHz Band Plan ..................................................................................................................... 19
Appendix A List of 700 MHz State Use Channels ..................................................................... 20
Appendix B Acronym List .............................................................................................................. 22
Appendix C Glossary ..................................................................................................................... 23
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 1
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Purpose The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan (plan) sets out the administrative process for the Department of Management Services (DMS) to oversee the allocation of 700 MHz State Use channels for state agencies as well as frequency coordination with neighboring states. 1.2 Background History With a growing need for more spectrum for public safety needs, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) established the Public Safety Wireless Advisory Committee (PSWAC) on June 25, 1995, to provide a recommendation on wireless communication needs of public safety agencies. In response to the PSWAC report, Congress directed the FCC to allocate spectrum to public safety. With the planned transition of television stations from an analog to digital-based transmission format, it was recommended additional spectrum from the soon-to-be-vacated television band be allocated for public safety communications. The FCC allocated 24 MHz of that spectrum in the 700 MHz band to public safety users.1 In 2000, 10 percent of the above 24 MHz was set aside for use by all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the U.S. territories. This 10 percent defines the state use allocation. Each entity was required to apply for the use of these channels. The State Use Channels were designated to be controlled by the elected Chief Executive of each state or his designee. In most cases, this was the Governor. In 2001, DMS became the licensee for the 700 MHz State Use Channels in Florida. Each state license is required to comply with FCC-established build-out deadlines. The licensee is also required to certify they are meeting deadlines to provide substantial service to a certain portion of the state’s population or territory. The following substantial service deadlines were established:
• June 13, 2014, the state must provide, or be prepared to provide, substantial service to one third of the state’s population.2
• June 13, 2019, the state must provide, or be prepared to provide, substantial service to two thirds of the state’s population.
The state’s 700 MHz license is a geographical license, as opposed to the traditional site-based license authorization used by public safety entities. Seeking to relieve administrative burden and cost to states, the FCC elected to authorize the state use license as a geographic license, allowing licensees flexibility to relocate facilities within their legal jurisdiction and remain in
1Third report and order (FCC 00-348).
2On June 9, 2014, the Department of Management Services filed the construction notice with the FCC certifying the initial build out requirement with coverage provided by the SLERS aircraft sites.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 2
compliance with FCC rules and guidelines. Licensees must be cognizant of any potential impact on neighboring states by the use of the 700 MHz State Use Channels and pre-established frequency coordination with those states. Florida developed preliminary concurrences with two adjacent states, Alabama and Georgia. Adjacent state concurrence will be updated to include Mississippi, Louisiana, and South Carolina; Louisiana and South Carolina will be added as additional adjacent states in conjunction with the State of Florida’s (state’s) P25 aircraft system. 1.3 Governance FCC Rules The FCC rules concerning the utilization of 700 MHz State Use Channels are codified in Title 47, Code of Federal Regulations (47 CFR) and includes 47 CFR 90.521 through 90.553. 1.4 Plan Revision The Florida 700 MHz State Use Channel Plan shall be updated as needed, and DMS will post any proposed changes to the plan on the DMS website as well as in the Florida Administrative Register.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 3
2.0 Geographic Description
2.1 Geographic Coverage This plan shall encompass the entire State of Florida to include territorial waters. 2.2 Geographic Environment The Florida terrain ranges from flat and sub-tropical in the south to pine woods and rolling hills in the north. Elevations range from sea level to just less than 300 feet. Eighty percent of the population is concentrated in the Miami-West Palm Beach and the Tampa-Orlando-Jacksonville corridors. Florida is the third most-populous state in the United States.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 4
3.0 Use of the 700 MHz State Use Channels
3.1 Description on Channel Usage The FCC, in the allocation of this block of spectrum for 700 MHz State Use Channels, provided flexibility for eligible users. However, use of these channels is subject to all applicable rules including:
a. Power Limits b. Spectrum Efficiencies
The following sections define the types of usage of these channels in Florida. If a conflict arises between this document and the appropriate sections in the 47 CFR Part 90, Part 90 shall supersede this plan. 3.2 Fixed Base Radio Locations Agencies can request to implement one or more State Use Channels as a fixed base radio location as defined in 47 CFR 90.531. The base station shall transmit on the low side of the frequency pair. This is different from current 800 MHz operation in which the base station transmits on the high side of the frequency pair.3 Given they have sufficient channel capacity, an agency may use their allotted channels in a trunked or conventional radio system. Per 47 CFR 90.537, an agency implementing six or more 700 MHz channels at a single location is required to employ a trunked radio system. If a need arises for an agency to modify their radio system, the agency shall submit their request to DMS. Refer to section 6.5 of this plan concerning system modifications. 3.3 Mobile and Portable Radios Mobile and portable radio users of the 700 MHz spectrum shall comply with all applicable rules as outlined in 47 CFR 90.531 and other applicable sections of the 47 CFR Part 90. Mobile and portable users shall transmit on the high side of the frequency pair and have an associated fixed base station. Agencies shall be mindful of their area of operations. Users operating within 35 miles of the state line should be aware of the potential interference to or from users in adjacent states.
347 CFR Part 90.531(a) Base and Mobile use. The 763-775 MHz band may be used for base, mobile, or fixed (repeater) transmissions.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 5
3.4 Talk-Around (or Direct) Mode Agencies using channels in a talk-around (or direct) mode shall use the low side of the frequency pair for communications.4 Talk-around mode can be used by agencies needing close communications in areas that do not have sufficient coverage from their fixed 700 MHz radio system. Some examples of this include users working offshore in coastal waters that are beyond fixed system radio coverage; in rivers and valleys where radio coverage historically has been a challenge; or on patrol, covert, or security operations detail that require enhanced security measures.
3.5 Campus Type Systems To promote spectral efficiencies on available State Use Channels, normal allotment of those channels will be based on geographic spacing. However, in certain instances, channel reuse will be packed tighter when used in a campus environment. These types of systems will be used for universities or large complexes such as the Capital Circle Office Complex in Tallahassee, Department of Corrections’ work camps or institutions, and similar types of complexes. Therefore, these systems will provide coverage for a limited geographical area, normally less than a five-mile radius. These systems shall be designed to cover no more than a three-mile radius beyond their geographic boundary. Requests to exceed this limitation shall require supporting technical and administrative justification. 3.6 700 MHz Interoperability Channel Requirement The 47 CFR 90.525 (a) states “…A public safety entity meeting the requirements of section 90.523 may operate mobile or portable units on the interoperability channels in the 769–775 MHz and 799–805 MHz frequency bands without a specific authorization from the Commission provided it holds a Part 90 license.” Agencies implementing 700 MHz mobile or portable radios shall program the minimum number of 700 MHz interoperability channels specified in the latest version of the Florida 700 MHz Public Safety Interoperability Channel Plan.5 This plan can be found on the DMS Radio Communications Services webpage. Agencies are encouraged to develop agency-specific communications procedures for using interoperability channels for interagency communications. 3.7 Narrowbanding Efficiencies Agencies are encouraged to look for ways to implement technologies that are spectrum efficient. Future editions of this plan may address narrowbanding efficiencies as improved technology provides for the use of channels with 6.25 kHz efficiency.
4 Ibid
5 The latest version describes the “minimum channel quantity” in section 4.5.3.
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3.8 Aircraft Use Florida has 16 channels designated for state aircraft use. These channels are used at various state aircraft sites, with four channels allotted and in use at each site. Users shall make every effort to avoid interference with the adjacent states. Due to the propagation effects of high-altitude transmitters, this applies to any state within 150 miles of the area of operation of a state aircraft. In 47 CFR 90.423(a)(2), it specifies a limit of 10 watts of output for aircraft using land mobile radio frequency and limits their operation to 1.6 km (one mile) above ground.
3.9 Deployable System Florida’s diverse communications needs requires a deployable radio communications system for special events, disasters (man-made or natural), and for land topography that does not permit installation of a permanent transmitter site. Under this plan, agencies may deploy a transportable communications unit to supplement permanent infrastructure during special events or to provide radio communications in an area where the coverage is needed for a special operation. Agencies can request channels for a deployable system. DMS will strive to provide channels that can be used statewide without restrictions, if possible. Operations along Florida’s state line will require the user to pay attention to adjacent-state 700 MHz State Use Channels to prevent or minimize potential interference. To request channels for a deployable system, refer to section 6.3 Submittal Requirements. The requested deployable channels will be returned to the deployable channel pool once the special event or operation has ended. DMS will initiate the first coordination with adjacent states. The user will coordinate with adjacent states prior to and at the end of usage of approved channels. 3.10 Vehicular Repeater Vehicular repeaters (MO3 station class) and associated portable radios (MO station class) must maintain compliance with 47 CFR Part 90 including but not limited to:
• Digital modulation (analog modulation permitted in a secondary mode in addition to the primary digital mode) per 47 CFR 90.535(a).
• Transmitter minimum data (non-voice) rate of 4.8 kbps per 6.25 kHz of bandwidth per 47 CFR 90.535(b).
• Frequency stability per 47 CFR 90.539(c). • Mobile radio transmitters must not exceed 30 watts per 47 CFR 90.541(b). This also
associates with the vehicular repeater system’s transmitter. • Portable radio transmitters must not exceed three watts per 47 CFR 90.541(c). • Mobile and portable radio transmitters must comply with emission limitations per 47
CFR 90.543 • TV/DTV interference protection criteria per 47 CFR 90.545, as applicable. • Per 47 CFR 90.547, mobile and portable radios must be capable of operating on all
narrowband Interoperability channels, except as provided in 47 CFR 90.547(a)(1), (2), and (3).
• Per 47 CFR 90.553, encryption is permitted, but "... must have a readily accessible switch or other readily accessible control that permits the radio user to disable encryption.”
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 7
4.0 Channel Allotment
Subject to short-spaced analysis or cooperative channel use, a default distance of 70 miles will be applied between co-channel allotments. Adjacent-channel allotments will have no default distance (i.e., zero miles) unless there is a potential for harm to an adjacent channel. The specific channel allotment to each agency shall be kept at DMS. 4.1 Channels for SLERS Network The Statewide Law Enforcement Radio System (SLERS) 800 MHz network is the primary communications network for Florida’s state law enforcement officers. With the critical need to maintain a robust system that can handle anticipated user growth, a minimum of 31 channels is set aside from the pool of 700 MHz State Use Channels to supplement the current SLERS 800 MHz system. These channels will be used to build out additional sites in the next generation SLERS network and improve statewide portable coverage. 4.2 SLERS Mobile Radio System SLERS has two deployable Mobile Radio Systems (MRS) that can be transported throughout the state for special events, disaster response, and other special operations to provide a temporary means of communications. An MRS can be preprogrammed with six nationwide deployable trunked channels. Ten 700 MHz State Use Channels are allotted for use in the MRS if more than one MRS (state or local) is deployed simultaneously to the same location. 4.3 SLERS Aircraft Project 25 Network SLERS has several aircraft sites that are used by state law enforcement to patrol the state and assist land-based officers in their law enforcement activities. These sites are also used by SLERS partner agencies that are authorized to utilize the aircraft P25 network. This plan reserves 16 channels for use at these sites. 4.4 Florida Department of Law Enforcement The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is allotted three 700 MHz State Use Channels for special security details. These channels are available for use statewide.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 8
4.5 Florida Highway Patrol The Florida Highway Patrol, a division of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, is allotted three 700 MHz State Use channels for special security details. These channels are available for use statewide. 4.6 Florida Division of Emergency Management The Florida Division of Emergency Management is allotted five channels to assist in preparing the state for a disaster and in response and recovery efforts. These channels are available for use statewide. 4.7 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is allotted three 700 MHz State Use Channels for special security details. These channels are available for use statewide. Additional channels may be assigned to this agency for offshore operations. The channels will be allotted geographically in a manner that will reduce potential interference to other users of these channels. 4.8 Florida Department of Corrections The Florida Department of Corrections is allotted six 700 MHz State Use Channels. These channels are available for use statewide. Additional channels may be allotted to this agency for use at correctional institutions. The channels will be allotted in a geographical manner that will reduce potential interference to other users of these channels. 4.9 Vehicular Repeaters The use of vehicular repeaters is outlined in section 3.10 of this plan. Four 700 MHz State Use Channels shall be reserved for use for with “In-Band” vehicular repeater systems. Two 700 MHz State Use Channels shall be reserved for use with “Cross-Band” vehicular repeater systems.
4.10 Public Safety Interoperable Communications Sites The Domestic Security Task Force, Region 2, has been allotted six 700 MHz State Use Channels that are implemented at three sites in that region. These three sites were implemented to provide interoperability with SLERS and several regional law enforcement agencies.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 9
4.11 Reserve Five 700 MHz State Use Channels are unassigned for a reserve allotment. These channels may be requested for use by any state agency per sections 4.13, 4.14 and 6.4 of this plan. 4.12 Interagency Direct Mode Agencies are encouraged to review and implement 700 MHz public safety interoperability channels as outlined in section 3.6 of this plan and use the talk-around channels for direct mode communications with other agencies. 4.13 Additional Channels for Eligible State Agencies Agencies may submit a statement of need to DMS requesting additional 700 MHz channels. The statement of need shall be accompanied with a planned funding source to implement the additional channels, as well as a timetable to implement the channels within a timeline per section 4.16 of this plan. A review of the statement of need and an analysis will be completed to determine if any available channels can be allotted to the requestor. 4.14 Miscellaneous Allotments Other governmental entities that are not directly considered a state agency, as well as post-secondary education organizations, may request 700 MHz channels. Each request will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The requesting agency shall submit a formal request to DMS outlining the purpose of request, the planned funding source that will be used to implement the channels and purchase subscriber units, and the areas of planned operations. The agency shall be responsible for providing all documents needed to complete the statement of need package. DMS will review the request once the package is received and will respond with an initial assessment within 60 calendar days of receipt of the request. 4.15 Intrastate Dispute Resolution DMS strives to provide the best channel allotment and assignment to eligible users of the 700 MHz State Use Channels. In the event there is a dispute on the channels assigned to an agency, the objecting agency shall submit their objections to DMS within 15 calendar days of the new assignment. The submittal shall include all necessary detail and information validating any potential interference or other concerns. Upon DMS’ receipt of an objection, the agency with the new assignment shall provide all necessary technical information to validate that the implementation of their system will not cause interference to the objecting agency or address the concerns of the objecting agency within 30 calendar days of being notified by DMS. If the issue with the new assignment cannot be resolved with the two agencies, DMS will request a panel of technical personnel with subject matter expertise from other Florida state agencies to convene and review the dispute and provide a recommendation to DMS. Any associated cost to validate the new system will be the sole responsibility of the new assignee. The National Public Safety Telecommunications Council 700 MHz Regional Planning Guidebook, ver. 2.01, Appendix K will be used to determine harmful interference signal in all system coverage areas when necessary or for dispute resolution.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 10
4.16 Channel Plan Allotment Timeline Channels allotted to an agency shall be for that agency’s use. If there is a demand by other agencies for additional channels, it may necessitate a re-allotment of channels. If any agency has not made plans to implement its allotment within five years of the initial allotment, the number of channels assigned to that agency may be reduced to respond to requests from other agencies that will actively use channels administered by this plan. DMS will send a written request to the affected agency informing them of the planned channel re-allotment. The agency shall have 15 calendar days to respond to the initial inquiry, submit a formal plan to actively use one or more of the channels under consideration within 90 calendar days, or agree to the planned channel re-allotment. DMS will attempt to keep a minimum number of channels allotted to participating Florida agencies while ensuring we provide the best solution to Florida’s overall radio communications needs. 4.17 Channel Relinquishment If an agency implements channels for a fixed system or talk-around only mode, and after some period of use decides not to use the channels any longer, the agency shall notify DMS of its plan to discontinue use of their 700 MHz State Use Channels. This notice should include a timeline of when the channels will be completely off the air and all transmission has ceased. The channels shall be kept allotted for that agency, subject to section 4.16 of this plan. Channels used for a deployable radio communications system will be relinquished and returned upon completion of the event for which they were used.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 11
5.0 Technical Parameters
5.1 Spectrum Efficiency Spectrum efficiency is covered in 47 CFR 90.535. Agencies shall plan, design, and implement radio systems as outlined in the above-mentioned FCC rule section. Agencies are encouraged to plan for future growth with a focus towards narrowbanding of their State Use Channels. 5.2 Interference Protection The channel allotment is based on the assumption that systems will be designed for maximum signal levels within their coverage area and minimum levels in the coverage area of other co-channel or adjacent-channel users. Coverage area is normally the area of operation of that agency, plus an additional three miles beyond the operational boundary of each fixed-base system. 5.3 Encryption Per 47 CFR 90.553(a), “Encryption is permitted on all but the two, nationwide, interoperability calling channels. Radios employing encryption must have a readily accessible switch or other readily accessible control that permits the radio user to disable encryption.” Per 47 CFR 90.553(b), “If encryption is employed, then transmitters manufactured after August 11, 2014 must use the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) specified in ANSI/TIA-102.AAAD-A: Project 25 Digital Land Mobile Radio-Block Encryption Protocol, approved August 20, 2009 Until 2030, manufacturers may also include Data Encryption Standard (DES) or Triple Data Encryption Algorithm (TDEA), in addition to but not in place of AES, for compatibility with legacy radio that lack AES capability.” This plan recommends the implementation of the latest revision of Project 25 AES Block Encryption Protocol, Telecommunications Industry Association, TIA/EIA-102.AAAD-B. Also per the Project 25 Statement of Requirements (December 13, 2013) for AES and DES:
4.1.1.1 AES Except for equipment using NSA-approved encryption or equipment intended for supply to markets where the supply of strong encryption is subject to import/export restrictions, all Project 25 equipment implementing encryption shall utilize the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm. Key length for the AES shall be 256 bits when used for encryption of P25 user information (i.e., P25 voice and P25 packet data). 4.1.1.2 DES The DES algorithm has reached the end of its useful cryptographic life. For interoperability purposes, in addition to AES, the Data Encryption Standard (DES) algorithm may be available in Project 25 equipment implementing encryption. The use of DES in new systems is strongly discouraged.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 12
5.4 Minimum System and Equipment Requirements Radio communications systems are a vital tool for public safety users. DMS has established a minimum set of technical standards to provide guidance for public safety users in the procurement of radio communications systems. The minimum system and equipment requirements can be found in the Florida Law Enforcement Communications Plan. The 700 MHz State Use Channel Plan will supersede any conflict with the Florida Law Enforcement Communications Plan.
5.5 Project 25 ID Numbering Each subscriber radio operating on a P25 trunked radio systems with 700 MHz State Use Channels shall be assigned and utilize an individual identification number (commonly called LID or Unit ID) per Florida’s Statewide P25 Radio Identification Plan approved by the State Working Group, Executive Committee on September 24, 2015. The LIDs for state agencies are assigned by DMS.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 13
6.0 Build-out Requirement The nature of governmental planning and budgeting processes, combined with revenue constraints, prohibits most agencies from implementing new systems in a relatively short period of time. In most cases, a radio communications system for governmental agencies will require multi-year, phased implementation schedules requiring three to five years to construct. Regional, wide-area, and statewide systems may require even longer periods to construct. This plan allows an extended implementation schedule in accordance with 47 CFR Part 90 which is available to all eligible applicants by stating “Slow Growth” on the FCC 601 form per section 6.3 of this plan. A Slow Growth schedule will allow up to five years for completion of station construction. Applicants who request Slow Growth are not required to submit the specific items of Slow Growth justification normally required by FCC rules. Build-out approval is provided by virtue of DMS providing the license sharing agreement, also known as a letter license.6 6.1 Build-out Notification The agency shall use the FCC Form 601, Schedule K to notify DMS within 60 calendar days of the system being completed per section 6.3 of this plan. This will allow tracking of the operational channels and facilitate DMS in providing information to the FCC demonstrating the state has built out the channels in accordance with 47 CFR 90.529(b). 6.2 Statewide License Custodian DMS applied for the State Use Channels in 2001 and was granted a license (FCC call sign WPTZ787). The renewal and administration of this license will be the responsibility of DMS. This includes the filing of the build-out deadline. It is important that agencies using these channels inform DMS of the progress of completing their allotted channels per section 6.1. 6.3 Submittal Requirements Agencies requesting to implement channels covered under this plan shall submit the following information to DMS:
1. Technical Information 2. Funding Source 3. Implementation Schedule
Allow at least 90 calendar days prior to purchase obligation to provide adequate time for DMS engineering staff to review the proposal. Technical information concerning the radio system shall be submitted on an FCC Form 601 and shall include the following:
• Main Form • Schedule D – station location and antenna structure
6 The term “letter license” is a national reference for the same purpose as “license sharing agreement” in Florida.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 14
• Schedule H – technical data schedule for land mobile radio service
Other technical information needed for submittal includes the following:
• Antenna Pattern if the proposed antenna is not an omni pattern; • Horizontal Antenna Configuration • Planned area of operation on a scaled map drawing • List of P25 LIDs assigned, when applicable
All documents for filing or notification to DMS should reference “700 MHz State Use License” and shall be submitted to: State of Florida, DMS Public Safety Bureau 4030 Esplanade Way, Suite 135 Tallahassee, FL 32399-0950 As an alternative, agencies can utilize different online services that allow an applicant to file FCC forms online. Please note that these services can be utilized for the ease of completing the FCC Form 601. Once the form is completed, the applicant should save the FCC form as a .pdf file and submit the form to DMS. Below are two examples of such online services. Agencies can choose the service or method that best meets their needs. Questions on completing the forms can be submitted in writing to DMS to the address above.
FreqEasy LLC SpectrumWatch
Once an applicant has been approved to implement any channels under the jurisdiction of this plan, DMS will provide a letter license to the applicant. DMS shall maintain a database of all applicants’ technical information. 6.4 Approval Procedures – New Allotment Agencies shall submit the required information to DMS for review and approval. The request should include a statement of need, the area of operations, a proposed FCC Form 601 showing the sites and other technical information per section 6.3. The application will be reviewed by DMS to evaluate if a new allotment can be granted, based on the available channels. If the agency requesting a new allotment has an area of operations that is within 70 miles (150 miles for aircraft systems) of the state line, adjacent coordination procedures will have to take place before the application can obtain final approval from DMS. Adjacent state coordination procedures are outlined in section 7.0.
The Florida 700 MHz Public Safety State Use Channel Plan Revised 2018 15
6.5 System Modification The State of Florida’s geographic license provides flexibility to maximize the effectiveness of the communications with minimum administrative burden. If an agency decides to modify its fixed location, the agency shall submit a request per section 6.3 of this plan. Allow at least 90 calendar days for DMS engineering staff to review a proposal and to update database records of the existing frequency channel allotments. Upon review, if any potential interference issue is identified, DMS will make recommendations to mitigate. Site modification includes changing any of the technical parameters that will change the service contour of the radio system (e.g., antenna location, antenna height, power output, etc.).
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7.0 Coordination with Adjacent States
DMS will coordinate the use of 700 MHz State Use Channels with Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi. The expected range of transmission from aircraft operations will require coordination with the states that are up to 150 miles from the Florida state line. In addition to the previously mentioned states, South Carolina and Louisiana may be treated as adjacent states for coordination with aircraft operations. Coordination with these states will be required to ensure co-channel and adjacent-channel interference potential is kept to a minimum or avoided completely and may take up to 30 calendar days. Any application (fixed-base systems or talk-around mode) that may potentially interfere with an existing agency or allotment in an adjacent state will be required to be reviewed by that respective agency or state; this will be before DMS can give final approval of the agency’s application. If an existing system of operations moves within 70 miles (150 miles for aircraft systems) of the state line, adjacent state coordination will be required. 7.1 Adjacent State Coordination Procedures The following are the specific procedures for interstate coordination that will be used by the planning authorities in each state to coordinate for adjacent state concurrence.
1. Applications by eligible entities are accepted by each authority, as applicable. 2. Intra-authority review and coordination takes place, including a technical review
resulting in assignment of channels. 3. After intra-authority review, a copy of those frequency-specific applications requiring
adjacent authority approval (including a proposed service area) shall then be forwarded to the adjacent authorities for review.7
4. The adjacent authorities review the application. If the application is approved, a letter of concurrence shall be sent to the initiating authority within 30 calendar days.
7.2 Dispute Resolution Procedures with Adjacent States Agencies operating within 70 miles (150 miles for aircraft systems) of the state line will be required to share spectrum with the adjacent state(s). A 12.5 kHz building block will be used to distribute spectrum between the states. Should disputes arise between interstate agencies concerning channel allotments, the following procedures define the resolution process by the adjacent authorities within Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Louisiana. The procedures in this section are adapted from APCO RPC 700 MHz Plan Template v9, Appendix L – Inter-Regional Coordination Procedures and Resolution of Disputes Template.
7 If an applicant’s proposed service area extends into the adjacent state(s), the affected authorities must approve the application. Service area shall normally be defined as the area included within the geographical boundary of the applicant, plus three miles. Other definitions of service area shall be justified with an accompanying Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or other application documentation between agencies, (i.e. mutual aid agreements).
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For the purposes of interstate coordination, authorities referenced in these procedures refer to the agencies responsible for administration of the 700 MHz State Use Channels in each state and therefore, within Florida, it refers to DMS. If a dispute arises between Florida and an adjacent state regarding spectrum allotments or implementation the following procedure shall be followed.
1. If the adjacent authorities cannot approve a request for a new allotment, the adjacent
authorities shall document the reasons for partial or non-concurrence, and respond within 30 calendar days via email. If the applying authority cannot modify the application to satisfy the objections of the adjacent authorities then, an interstate working group comprised of representatives of the two authorities shall be convened within 30 calendar days to attempt to resolve the dispute. The interstate working group shall report its findings within 30 calendar days to each authority’s email. Findings may include, but not be limited to:
a. Unconditional concurrence; b. Conditional concurrence contingent upon modification of applicant’s technical
parameters; or c. Partial or total denial of proposed frequencies due to inability to meet co-
channel/adjacent channel interference-free protection to existing licensees within the adjacent state.
2. If the interstate working group cannot resolve the dispute, then the matter shall be
forwarded for evaluation to the National Regional Planning Council (NRPC). Each authority involved in the dispute shall provide a detailed explanation of its position, including engineering studies and any other technical information deemed relevant. The NRPC will be requested to report, within 30 calendar days, its recommendations to each authority. The NRPC’s decision may support either of the disputing authorities or it may develop a proposal that it deems mutually advantageous to each disputing authority. As a last resort, the dispute will be forwarded to the FCC for final resolution.
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8.0 700 MHz State Use Channel List
A complete list of the 700 MHz State Use Channels (96 channels at 12.5 kHz bandwidth) and associated frequencies (in MHz) are listed in Appendix A. The channel numbers are listed as a pair that combines to form a 12.5 kHz-wide frequency channel. The frequency for the associated channel pair is the center of the channel pair (e.g., channels 25-26 are combined to form a 12.5 kHz channel with a frequency centered at 769.15625 MHz).
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9.0 700 MHz Band Plan
The 700 MHz Band Plan partitions the 700 MHz public safety band into several different categories of uses. Most of the channels are designated for general use and coordinated by the National Regional Planning Committee per the FCC. Information on the channels and the designated use of each channel can be found on the Computer Assisted Pre-Coordination Resource and Database (CAPRAD) website.
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Appendix A List of 700 MHz State Use Channels
Base Mobile Base Mobile
CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ 25-26 769.15625 985-986 799.15625 105-106 769.65625 1065-1066 799.65625 27-28 769.16875 987-988 799.16875 107-108 769.66875 1067-1068 799.66875 29-30 769.18125 989-990 799.18125 109-110 769.68125 1069-1070 799.68125 31-32 769.19375 991-992 799.19375 111-112 769.69375 1071-1072 799.69375 33-34 769.20625 993-994 799.20625 113-114 769.70625 1073-1074 799.70625 35-36 769.21875 995-996 799.21875 115-116 769.71875 1075-1076 799.71875 65-66 769.40625 1025-1026 799.40625 145-146 769.90625 1105-1106 799.90625 67-68 769.41875 1027-1028 799.41875 147-148 769.91875 1107-1108 799.91875 69-70 769.43125 1029-1030 799.43125 149-150 769.93125 1109-1110 799.93125 71-72 769.44375 1031-1032 799.44375 151-152 769.94375 1111-1112 799.94375 73-74 769.45625 1033-1034 799.45625 153-154 769.95625 1113-1114 799.95625 75-76 769.46875 1035-1036 799.46875 155-156 769.96875 1115-1116 799.96875
Base Mobile Base Mobile
CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ 185-186 770.15625 1145-1146 800.15625 265-266 770.65625 1225-1226 800.65625 187-188 770.16875 1147-1148 800.16875 267-268 770.66875 1227-1228 800.66875 189-190 770.18125 1149-1150 800.18125 269-270 770.68125 1229-1230 800.68125 191-192 770.19375 1151-1152 800.19375 271-272 770.69375 1231-1232 800.69375 193-194 770.20625 1153-1154 800.20625 273-274 770.70625 1233-1234 800.70625 195-196 770.21875 1155-1156 800.21875 275-276 770.71875 1235-1236 800.71875 225-226 770.40625 1185-1186 800.40625 305-306 770.90625 1265-1266 800.90625 227-228 770.41875 1187-1188 800.41875 307-308 770.91875 1267-1268 800.91875 229-230 770.43125 1189-1190 800.43125 309-310 770.93125 1269-1270 800.93125 231-232 770.44375 1191-1192 800.44375 311-312 770.94375 1271-1272 800.94375 233-234 770.45625 1193-1194 800.45625 313-314 770.95625 1273-1274 800.95625 235-236 770.46875 1195-1196 800.46875 315-316 770.96875 1275-1276 800.96875
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Base Mobile Base Mobile
CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ 645-646 773.03125 1605-1606 803.03125 725-726 773.53125 1685-1686 803.53125 647-648 773.04375 1607-1608 803.04375 727-728 773.54375 1687-1688 803.54375 649-650 773.05625 1609-1610 803.05625 729-730 773.55625 1689-1690 803.55625 651-652 773.06875 1611-1612 803.06875 731-732 773.56875 1691-1692 803.56875 653-654 773.08125 1613-1614 803.08125 733-734 773.58125 1693-1694 803.58125 655-656 773.09375 1615-1616 803.09375 735-736 773.59375 1695-1696 803.59375 685-686 773.28125 1645-1646 803.28125 765-766 773.78125 1725-1726 803.78125 687-688 773.29375 1647-1648 803.29375 767-768 773.79375 1727-1728 803.79375 689-690 773.30625 1649-1650 803.30625 769-770 773.80625 1729-1730 803.80625 691-692 773.31875 1651-1652 803.31875 771-772 773.81875 1731-1732 803.81875 693-694 773.33125 1653-1654 803.33125 773-774 773.83125 1733-1734 803.83125 695-696 773.34375 1655-1656 803.34375 775-776 773.84375 1735-1736 803.84375
Base Mobile Base Mobile
CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ CH FREQ 805-806 774.03125 1765-1766 804.03125 885-886 774.53125 1845-1846 804.53125 807-808 774.04375 1767-1768 804.04375 887-888 774.54375 1847-1848 804.54375 809-810 774.05625 1769-1770 804.05625 889-890 774.55625 1849-1850 804.55625 811-812 774.06875 1771-1772 804.06875 891-892 774.56875 1851-1852 804.56875 813-814 774.08125 1773-1774 804.08125 893-894 774.58125 1853-1854 804.58125 815-816 774.09375 1775-1776 804.09375 895-896 774.59375 1855-1856 804.59375 845-846 774.28125 1805-1806 804.28125 925-926 774.78125 1885-1886 804.78125 847-848 774.29375 1807-1808 804.29375 927-928 774.79375 1887-1888 804.79375 849-850 774.30625 1809-1810 804.30625 929-930 774.80625 1889-1890 804.80625 851-852 774.31875 1811-1812 804.31875 931-932 774.81875 1891-1892 804.81875 853-854 774.33125 1813-1814 804.33125 933-934 774.83125 1893-1894 804.83125 855-856 774.34375 1815-1816 804.34375 935-936 774.84375 1895-1896 804.84375
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Appendix B Acronym List
ACCP Adjacent Channel Coupled Power
AES Advanced Encryption Standard
ANSI American National Standards Institute
APCO Association of Public Safety Communications Officials
BER Bit Error Rate
CAPRAD Computer Assisted Pre-coordination Resources and Database
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DES Data Encryption Standard
DMS Department of Management Services
EIA Electronics Industries Association
FCC Federal Communications Commission
IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
kHz Kilohertz
LID Logical Identification
MHz Megahertz
MOU Memorandum of Understanding
MRS Mobile Radio Systems
NPSPAC National Public Safety Planning Advisory Council
NRPC National Regional Planning Council
P25 Project 25
PSIC Public Safety Interoperable Communications
SLERS Statewide Law Enforcement Radio System
TDMA Time Division Multiple Access
TIA Telecommunications Industry Association
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Appendix C Glossary
Adjacent Channel: A radio channel sharing a bandwidth edge with another channel (e.g., 700 MHz State Use Channel number 25 has an Interoperable Use Channel number 24 on one side and a State Use Channel number 26 on the other side.).
Adjacent Channel Coupled Power: Referenced by the FCC as “adjacent channel power” in 47 CFR 90.543, it is the relative signal strength transmitters can offset from the center frequency within a given bandwidth.
Antenna Gain: The effectiveness of an antenna expressed as the ratio of the power of an antenna to the power of an isotropic antenna to produce an increase in relative field strength.
Antenna, isotropic: A hypothetical, lossless antenna having equal radiation intensity in all directions. (ANSI/IEEE Std. 100-1988)
Bandwidth: (1) The width of a band of frequencies used for a particular purpose. (2) The range of frequencies within which a performance characteristic of a device is above specified limits. For filters, attenuators, and amplifiers, these limits are generally taken to be 3 dB, half-power, below the average level.
Base station: A station at a specific site authorized to communicate with mobile stations.
Co-Channel: A radio channel that has an overlapping bandwidth edge with another channel (e.g., 700 MHz State Use channel number 25 at 6.25 kHz bandwidth and State Use channel numbers 25 & 26 combined for 12.5 kHz bandwidth).
Coverage area: In a radio communications system, the geographic area where reliable communications exist (usually expressed in terms of square miles surrounding a fixed radio station).
Coverage contour: In a radio communications system, the boundary at which reliable communications exist (usually expressed in terms of miles extending from a fixed radio station).
Effective radiated power (ERP): The calculated power output from an antenna system which incorporates all the gains and losses in the antenna system. The ERP is calculated as follows: (1) convert power output of transmitter to dB referenced to one watt (dBw); (2) subtract all transmission line losses including losses in equipment between the transmitter and antenna (filter, diplexers, circulators, duplexers, etc.) expressed in dB; (3) add the antenna's power gain (expressed in dB reference to half-wave dimple; and (4) convert the results into watts.
47 CFR Part 90: The part of FCC, Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations (47 CFR) that addresses public safety communications.
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Fixed relay station: An operational fixed station established for the automatic retransmission of radio communications received from either one or more fixed stations or from a combination of fixed and mobile stations and directed to a specified location.
Frequency band: A continuous range of frequencies extending between two limiting frequencies. Defined by International Telecommunications Union radio regulations, the radio spectrum is divided into nine bands. Frequency bands that are involved in two-way radio communications are the very high frequency (VHF) band 30-300 MHz and the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band, 300-3000 MHz. The 700 MHz band is technically a subset of the UHF band.
Mobile relay station: An operational fixed station established for the automatic retransmission of radio communications received from any station in the mobile service.
Selectivity: The ability to select one particular signal from other signals at nearby frequencies. This specification is important in urban areas where radio spectrum congestion exists. The more negative the dB rating, the better the specification.
Signal-to-noise ratio: The ratio of the intensity of the desired signal to that of the undesired noise signal, usually expressed in decibels.
