Who this applies to
Operators who have been granted code rights by Ofcom, including:
- Fixed and mobile network operators
- Internet service providers with own infrastructure
- Fibre network providers
- Infrastructure companies building shared networks
Code rights include
- Installing apparatus on, under, or over land
- Keeping, inspecting, maintaining, and upgrading apparatus
- Carrying out works on land for or in connection with installation of apparatus
- Entering land to inspect, maintain, adjust, alter, or remove apparatus
Requirements
Code operators must follow proper procedures when seeking to install apparatus, including serving proper notices and, if necessary, applying to the Upper Tribunal for rights where agreement cannot be reached with landowners.
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Apply for code operator status
Apply to Ofcom for code operator status if deploying network infrastructure
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Follow code procedures
Follow code procedures when negotiating wayleaves and access agreements
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Serve proper notices
Serve proper notices under the Electronic Communications Code
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Maintain records
Maintain records of all apparatus installed under code rights
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Comply with planning requirements
Comply with planning requirements where applicable
Legal basis
Primary legislation and key regulations
Browse UK legislation (opens in a new tab) legislation.gov.ukOfficial guidance
Statement: Electronic Communications Code (opens in a new tab)
Ofcom
Statement: Electronic Communications Code – Proposed Template Notices resulting from Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act 2022 amendments to the Code (opens in a new tab)
Ofcom
Consultation: Proposal to apply Code powers to 4 Fibre Limited (opens in a new tab)
Ofcom
Consultation: Proposal to apply Code Powers to Atlas Tower Group Limited (opens in a new tab)
Ofcom
Consultation: Proposal to modify the direction applied to Code Powers to Arqiva Services Limited (opens in a new tab)
Ofcom
Proposal to give a direction applying the Electronic Communications Code to Telensa Ltd (opens in a new tab)
Ofcom