1. 📘 Introduction
With the growing demand for wireless communication, setting up telecom towers, radio equipment, and satellite stations has become essential. But before doing so, you need mandatory SACFA clearance.
SACFA (Standing Advisory Committee on Radio Frequency Allocation) is a regulatory body under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) that ensures your wireless infrastructure does not interfere with defense or aviation signals.
Getting SACFA approval is a legal prerequisite for anyone installing telecom towers, wireless antennas, VSAT, or broadcasting equipment in India.
2. 📜 Types of Approvals Offered Under SACFA
SACFA deals with the following types of clearances:
- Site Clearance – For telecom towers and wireless infrastructure
- Frequency Allocation – For allocating RF spectrum (microwave, VHF, UHF)
- Coordination with WPC/Defense/Airports – To avoid interference with sensitive installations
- Interference Analysis & Technical Assessment
These approvals are mandatory for ISP, UL, NLD, ILD, VSAT operators, and broadcasters.
3. 👥 Who Needs These Services?
You will need SACFA approval if you are:
- An Internet Service Provider (ISP) setting up towers or microwave links
- A Telecom operator installing BTS or radio stations
- A Broadcaster (TV/Radio) setting up transmission stations
- An IoT/M2M company using wireless backhaul
- A Tower infrastructure company
- A VSAT license holder or enterprise setting up satellite terminals
- A System integrator deploying wireless equipment for corporates or government
4. 🤝 Why Choose a SACFA Approval Consultant?
SACFA application involves technical diagrams, interference analysis, and coordination with multiple authorities. A professional consultant helps:
✅ Prepare accurate site coordinates (Lat/Long)
✅ Submit online applications via Saral Sanchar
✅ Manage WPC/WMO communication
✅ Ensure technical compliance with ICAO/Defense norms
✅ Avoid rejections or delays
✅ Track application status & provide clarifications
5. 📝 Registration Process
The SACFA approval process is done online through the Saral Sanchar Portal:
Step-by-Step Process:
- Create login
- Select SACFA Module
- Fill site details: Location, height, frequency, and purpose
- Upload documents: Site plan, coverage map, tower coordinates
- Pay applicable fee online
- Auto-routing to concerned authorities (Defense, AAI, WPC)
- Respond to queries if any
- Approval granted, download clearance letter
6. 📂 Required Documents
Here are the typical documents needed for SACFA application:
- Company PAN, GST, and Incorporation Certificate
- MoA/Board Resolution for site authorization
- Latitude/Longitude details (accurate to 6 decimals)
- Site Elevation and Antenna Height
- Tower/Structure drawing (with dimensions)
- Frequency details and radio parameters
- Copy of license (if applying as an ISP/UL holder)
7. 💸 Cost Involved
Item | Cost Estimate (INR) |
Govt. Fee (Per Site) | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
Consultant Fee | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 per site |
Mapping & Interference Check | Included in consultant fee |
Optional GIS Mapping Tools | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 (optional) |
Charges vary based on project complexity and number of sites.
8. ⏳ Time Taken
Process Step | Timeline |
Document Preparation | 3–5 Days |
Online Application Filing | 1–2 Days |
Review by SACFA Authorities | 30–45 Days (Avg.) |
Final Clearance | 45–60 Days |
For sensitive zones (near airports or defense), it may take longer.
9. ❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incorrect latitude/longitude
- Wrong tower height calculations
- Uploading incomplete site diagrams
- Not checking proximity to airfields or defense zones
- Choosing incorrect frequency bands
- Not following up on raised queries in time
With expert help, such costly mistakes can be avoided entirely.
10. 📞 Call-to-Action (CTA)
Need SACFA clearance or expert help with wireless site approvals?
📧 Email: opriyatrendingpvtltd@gmail.com
📲 WhatsApp: +91 7588756518
🌐 Website: www.opriyatrending.in
Let our expert telecom compliance team help you from application to final approval.
11. ❓ FAQs
Q1. Is SACFA approval mandatory for ISP license holders?
Yes. Any ISP setting up towers or antennas needs SACFA clearance.
Q2. Can I apply directly without a consultant?
Yes, but due to the technical nature, hiring a consultant is advised.
Q3. How long is SACFA approval valid?
Generally, until there is a change in site, antenna height, or frequency.
Q4. Can one application cover multiple sites?
No. Each site requires separate SACFA approval.
Q5. What happens if SACFA is not obtained?
Your wireless setup may be deemed illegal, risking penalties or shutdown.