Small Cell Permitting

Background

Small cells are 4G/5G radio equipment set up on streetlights, utility poles, or its own pole. Small cells boost local internet signals and help responding to emergency calls. With more people using smartphones and other connected devices every day, carriers need stronger networks to keep speeds fast and reliable. 

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Questions or Comments?

Phone: (650) 522-7300 

Email: PWEncroachment@cityofsanmateo.org 

If you're asking about a specific Small Wireless Facility Application, please mention the address listed in the Public Notice.

Ordinance & Policy

Interactive Permit Map

To view a specific permit, click on the site in the map below to see more information. This map does not include all locations permitted prior to the 2018 Wireless Ordinance.

Note: If there is more than one permit at the same location, the pop-up window header will note "1 of 2" or similar; click on the arrows to scroll through different permits.

Having trouble viewing the map? Click here to view this map in full screen mode

What Do Small Cell Installations Look Like?

Below are examples of what some existing and possible small cells look like. This is not a complete collection and does not mean these examples are approvable designs under the City Policy. There may be different designs not shown below.

Photo of an existing small cell facility on a city streetlight at 110 west 5th
SC Website - 951 S Delaware
Photo of an existing small cell facility on top of a median double arm streetlight
Photo of a simulated small cell facility pole-mounted on a city streetlight
Photo of a simulated small cell facility on a wood joint utility pole
Photo of an existing small cell facility side-arm mounted on a wood joint utility pole

Obtaining Permits

Any new small cell or change to one needs two permits. The first is a Small Wireless Facilities (SWF) Permit which approves the location and how it will look. The second is an Encroachment (EP) Permit which allows the company to build it. If a company wants to put a small cell on a City-owned streetlight, they have to sign a Master License Agreement with the City before they apply for an EP.

Related Documents

Documents for Small Wireless Facility Applicants

Appeal Application

Adopted Fee Schedule

Small Cells in San Mateo

Currently, there are four companies with Master License Agreements to install small cell on City-owned streetlights.

AT&T Logo Modus Logo   


AT&T through Modus
Caitlin McLester, Project Manager | Modus, LLC
(510) 914-1357 | nextedgenetworks.com/modus


Verizon Logo


Verizon Wireless
(844) 825-8389 | verizon.com


Extenet_FullColorLogo_Navy_Tagline_111522Extenet Systems
(972) 972-7200| extenet.com/


Crown Castle LogoCrown Castle
Michael Cintron, Permitting Manager | Crown Castle
(925) 701-7191 | crowncastle.com