Spectrum Licence

Radio spectrum is a scarce public resource, and using it without authorisation is a criminal matter, not just a regulatory inconvenience. Section 8 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 provides that 'it is unlawful (a) to establish or use a wireless telegraphy station, or (b) to instal or use wireless telegraphy apparatus, except under and in accordance with a licence (a "wireless telegraphy licence") granted under this section by OFCOM.'

Not everything requires a licence: section 8(2) carves out specific exemptions, including 'the use of a television receiver... for receiving a television programme', and further exemptions exist elsewhere in the Act and in regulations for low-power devices such as many Wi-Fi routers and remote controls. Where a licence is required, Ofcom sets the terms — including the frequencies authorised, permitted power levels, and geographic scope — and licences are typically awarded either administratively for a fee or, for the most valuable spectrum bands (such as those used for mobile networks), through competitive auction.