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Base antenna height

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prcguy

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This is correct. When I got visited by the FCC in the late 1970s my Hy-Gain Penetrator was about 60ft off the ground on a split level house, technically illegal. The field engineers measured my antenna height and noted it in the complaint but it didn't add to the $50 fine at the time for failing to use my callsign within a 10 minute period during a long conversation.

While the FCC was at my house I ran down a list of "what if" questions including an antenna mounted on a tall building and they said you can go maximum of 20ft above the roof to the tip of the antenna if it will otherwise exceed 60ft above ground. My antenna was 22' 9" tall and that would have to be lowered by 2' 9" below roof line to be legal in that case. Otherwise I was happy to be visited by the FCC and only pay a $50 for the delightful and informative experience.



I think what this refers to is in the case a tall building, such as say an 8 story condominium, the antenna top can't be more than 20 feet above the building. In that case a 24 foot antenna would technically be illegal, and a shorter antenna such as a 1/4 wave or 5/8 wave would have to be used. Note that the regulation states "whichever is higher". This would place the base of the antenna some 80 feet or more above the ground, but the obstruction of the building requires it. That's my take on it.
 
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