The Enforcement Bureau has two divisions responsible for handling broadcast complaints. The Investigations and Hearings Division is responsible for resolving complaints of non-technical broadcast violations such as complaints alleging broadcast of obscene, profane and/or indecent material, violations of the FCC's rules regarding broadcast of hoaxes, licensee-conducted contests, broadcast of telephone conversation, and public inspection file requirements.



The Spectrum Enforcement Division resolves complaints of technical violations such as unauthorized operation of a broadcast station, violation of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) rules, antenna structure registration, marking and lighting rules, and operation with excessive power or at an unauthorized location.



Types of Complaints

• Broadcast of Obscene, Profane and/or Indecent Material Complaints
  
• Broadcast of Hoaxes
  
• Licensee-Conducted Contests
  
• Broadcast of Telephone Conversations
  
• Public File Requirements
  
• Payola and Sponsorship Identification
  
• Unlicensed Operation of Broadcast Stations
  
• Emergency Alert System
  
• Antenna Structure Information
  
• Broadcast Interference
  
• The FCC Enforcement Bureau: A Broadcaster's Guide