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Pole Attachment Methods

Rhode Island Energy (RIE) requirements for the provisions of FCC Order 18-111

The effective date of Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) Order 18-111 is May 20, 2019. For detailed information regarding the Order, please refer to the FCC's Third Report and Order and Declaratory Ruling released on August 3, 2018.

What qualifies for One-Touch Make-Ready

One-Touch Make-Ready (OTMR) applies to "simple" work in the communications space on a utility pole. This includes the rearrangement of existing communication cables and the installation of new cables, provided they don’t risk service outages, facility damage, cable splicing, or antenna work. Attachments eligible for OTMR are those that do not require work in the power space or above the communications space.

Rhode Island Energy contractor requirements for OTMR:

A requesting attaching company must use one of the following approved contractors to complete the OTMR survey or construction work

Approved contractor for construction work:

For RIE solely owned poles:

For RIE jointly owned poles with Verizon NE:

  • Contact Verizon NE to determine their approved contractors for OTMR construction work in the communications space

Approved Contractors for Survey Work:

RIE requirements for OTMR applications

Attachers must submit OTMR applications through our application management system.

Application Requirements:

  • Must involve only "simple" communications space make-ready work only
  • Include a completed pole loading analysis for each pole
  • Include photos and measurements taken using Katapult Pro software by approved survey firms (This ensures consistency and faster processing)
  • No outstanding pole loading issues
  • Must not involve antenna installations
  • Substandard, careless, bad faith conduct, or failure to comply with RIE's OTMR requirements may result in ineligibility for future OTMR applications

New attatchers requirements:

  • New attachers must provide advance notice to RIE and existing attachers for OTMR surveys including a virtual walkdown option using Katapult pro photos
  • New attachers can submit separate applications for OTMR and complex work (power make-ready)
  • Include a certified review of the survey work by a licensed Professional Engineer in Rhode Island
  • Provide 15 days’ written notice to RIE and existing attachers before construction, including details about the work, date/time, contractor’s information, and the opportunity to be present during the work
  • Notify RIE and existing attachers within 15 days of completing OTMR construction