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Electronic Communications Code

Rights and obligations for communications network operators to install and maintain electronic communications apparatus on public and private land.

Guide summary

If you are a telecoms network operator with code rights from Ofcom, you must follow the Electronic Communications Code when installing or maintaining equipment on land. Serve proper notices, keep records of all apparatus, and comply with planning rules. If you cannot agree with a landowner, apply to the Upper Tribunal.

  • Apply to Ofcom for code operator status
  • Serve proper notices before installing apparatus
  • Keep records of all apparatus installed under code rights
  • Follow code procedures when negotiating wayleaves
  • Comply with planning requirements where they apply
  • Use the Upper Tribunal if you cannot reach agreement with a landowner
  • Inspect, maintain, and upgrade apparatus as needed
  • Enter land only with the correct legal permissions
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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.

  1. 1

    Apply for code operator status

    Apply to Ofcom for code operator status if deploying network infrastructure

  2. 2

    Follow code procedures

    Follow code procedures when negotiating wayleaves and access agreements

  3. 3

    Serve proper notices

    Serve proper notices under the Electronic Communications Code

  4. 4

    Maintain records

    Maintain records of all apparatus installed under code rights

  5. 5

    Comply with planning requirements

    Comply with planning requirements where applicable

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