Restricted radio services

Radio

Apply for a restricted service licence

Published: 12 March 2024

Last updated: 18 October 2024

Restricted services are radio services with small coverage areas that are used to broadcast at events, or within a particular establishment or other locations in the UK.

Radio broadcast update – March 2024

Published: 4 April 2024

A round-up of Ofcom’s broadcast radio licensing activity in March 2024.

Ofcom helps to spread a little Christmas cheer

Published: 22 December 2020

Last updated: 15 August 2023

At a time when we all need a bit of festive fun, Ofcom has been helping to bring about a new spin on traditional entertainment to keep the country smiling through a Christmas season like no other.

Licensing drive-in movies and church services

Published: 27 May 2020

Last updated: 16 March 2023

Organisers of drive-in movies and church service events will be able to apply for temporary radio licences by Ofcom, to allow film lovers and congregations to come together while still observing social distancing rules.

Apply for an audio distribution systems restricted service licence

Published: 25 October 2022

Last updated: 16 March 2023

The information you need to apply for a long-term or audio distribution system (ADS) restricted service licence.

Limited coverage FM restricted service radio trial licensing

Published: 18 June 2021

Last updated: 16 March 2023

Ofcom is today inviting applications for ‘limited coverage’ FM restricted service radio licences as part of a new trial.

Statement: Restricted services – proposals to increase available spectrum and simplify our approach to licensing

Published: 14 March 2022

We are proposing to change our approach to licensing certain broadcast radio services known as restricted services.

Licensing drive-in events

Published: 19 March 2021

Guidance to individuals or organisations who may wish to hold a drive-in service.

Statement: Short-term restricted service licensing review

Published: 3 October 2019

Following consultation, we have decided to cease two aspects of our policy on licensing short-term restricted services licences (SRSL).

Radio Restricted Services and 55 to 68 MHz: A Consultation

Published: 26 April 2006

This statement sets out our new policies in relation to radio restricted services (including Audio Distribution Systems) and unused spectrum between 55 and 68 MHz.

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