Directv Local channels from other markets ... I heard you can get a waiver for the FCC to order true or false?

Question

Directv Local channels from other markets ... I heard you can get a waiver for the FCC to order true or false?

Answer 1

You can try, but it's not likely they'll give them to you.  And there are limits on which markets are available.

When I initially started receiving DirecTV, local channels in my area were not available.  Therefore, they processed waivers so that I could get the networks on the East Coast and West Coast feeds.  I was getting ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox from New York and Los Angeles.  They didn't give me a choice as to what markets I could choose from (for example, I would have picked San Francisco instead of L.A., since it's closer to home).

When the local channels became available, I made DirecTV put in writing that I'd still be able to get these feeds (I like to watch/record my tv shows early, and can often only watch Raider games on the L.A. feed because of blackouts).

Recently, I upgraded to HD.  None of my local channels are available in HD through DirecTV (even though they are broadcasting in HD).  DirecTV processed a waiver so that I could get the networks in HD, although I can only get the West Coast feeds for these.

Answer 2

Yes you can, it's not always easy, though.

The deciding factor is usually that you must prove that you are unable to receive your local stations.  The FCC requires a cable or satellite provider to supply the local stations if the local station can deliver a good enough signal to the cable system's pick up point.  The waiver must be approved by the local station because they are, in effect, giving away a viewer.  If you are in an area where the local stations are offered by the satellite provider, good luck in making this work.

You can't always have a choice of what signal they will substitute, either.  The satellites use "spot beams" which cover a geographical area.  So, a viewer in Florida would not even be offered a signal in Texas because it's not being aimed at them.  They would probably be offered the closest major city's locals or one of the network's flagship stations in New York or LA.

I hope this helps.  Please return and select a Best Answer from all of those submitted.