66-351. State franchising authority.
(a) Authority. - The Secretary of State is designated the exclusive franchising authority in this State for cable service provided over a cable system. This designation replaces the authorization to counties and cities in former G.S. 153A-137 and G.S. 160A-319 to award a franchise for cable service. This designation is effective January 1, 2007. After this date, a county or city may not award or renew a franchise for cable service.
(b) Award and Scope. - The Secretary is considered to have awarded a franchise to a person who files a notice of franchise under G.S. 66-352. A franchise for cable service authorizes the holder of the franchise to construct and operate a cable system over public rights-of-way within the area to be served. Chapter 160A of the General Statutes governs the regulation of public rights-of-way by a city. (2006-151, s. 1.)
Structure North Carolina General Statutes
North Carolina General Statutes
Chapter 66 - Commerce and Business
Article 42 - State Franchise for Cable Television Service.
§ 66-351 - State franchising authority.
§ 66-352 - Award of franchise and commencement of service.
§ 66-354 - General filing and report requirements.
§ 66-355 - Effect on existing local franchise agreement.
§ 66-356 - Service standards and requirements.