CA SB649

Designates small cells as permitted uses subject only to building or encroachment permits if they meet specified requirements including compliance with federal and state health and safety regulations and location in public rights-of-way or commercial/industrial zones.

Authorizes cities and counties to charge three types of fees for small cells: an annual charge up to $250 per attachment to city/county vertical infrastructure, an annual attachment rate based on usable space and ownership costs, and one-time reimbursement fees for rearrangements.

Requires cities and counties to make vertical infrastructure available for small cell placement under fair and reasonable terms with feasible design and collocation standards, and mandates notice and hearing requirements before adopting or increasing attachment rates.

Prohibits cities and counties from requiring video or cable service providers holding state franchises to obtain additional permits or pay unauthorized taxes or fees beyond those authorized by the Digital Infrastructure and Video Competition Act of 2006.

Requires wireless service providers to submit reports to the Legislature by July 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020, detailing the number of small cells deployed and their locations by ZIP Code during the preceding 18 months.