Spectrum Licences

Sectoral participants in the Electronic Communications sector may apply for a spectrum licence to use a frequency or frequencies for one or more types of radiofrequency-based service. The application process is detailed in Annex 1 to the Schedule of the Regulatory Authority of Bermuda (Grant of Spectrum Licences, Permits, and Exempted Frequencies) General Determination 2020. 

Successful applicants are granted a Spectrum Licence and are assigned a frequency or frequencies for primary or co-primary (shared) use.

Spectrum in Bermuda is divided into four distinct groupings:

1. Commercial High Demand Spectrum(HDS)

HDS licences can only be awarded to EC Sectoral Participants that hold an Integrated Communications Operating Licence (ICOL) or an exemption from the Regulatory Authority (RA). By definition this spectrum is used for commercial services. Spectrum Fees are charged on a quarterly basis by the Bermuda Government.

 2. Commercial Non-High Demand Spectrum (Commercial NHDS)

Commercial NHDS licences can be awarded to EC Sectoral Participants that hold an ICOL or a Communications Operating Licence (COL) or an exemption from the RA. By definition this spectrum is used for commercial services. There are no ongoing spectrum fees charged at this time.

3. Non-Commercial Non-High Demand Spectrum (Non-Commercial NHDS)

Non-Commercial NHDS licences (typically shorter in duration than commercial licences) can be awarded to entities seeking spectrum for:

• temporary special events,
• technical testing,
• non-commercial trials, or
• any other non-commercial purposes

4. Exempted Frequencies

Users of Exempted Frequencies do not require a spectrum licence from the RA as long as they are compliant with the associated rules regarding safe operation and interference.