Governor's Veto Gives Locals Control Over 5G Infrastructure in California

A bill designed to streamline the implementation of 5G Internet infrastructure onto public poles and lights has been vetoed by California Governor Jerry Brown.

1 minute read

October 16, 2017, 1:00 PM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Internet Infrastructure

Niyazz / Shutterstock

California Governor Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that would have implemented statewide mandates for the installation of high-speed "small cell" equipment that will usher in a new era of 5G internet service.

Senate Bill 649 "would have downsized the role played by city and county officials in setting limits on where the equipment for new 5G cellular service would be placed," reports John Myers. "Local governments would have had less power to unilaterally block the installation of the devices, which Brown said in his veto message was a problem."

As explained in a July post that picked up on the emerging controversy over 5G infrastructure, small cell networking gear would be placed on public poles and streetlights—potentially creating more clutter and visual blight in the public realm.

Governor Brown's veto of the project effectively sides with local governments on a matter of local vs. state control as this new generation of Internet technology is built into the infrastructure systems of cities and communities in California.

Monday, October 16, 2017 in Los Angeles Times

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

High-rise apartment buildings in Waikiki, Hawaii with steep green mountains in background.

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss

The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

April 6, 2025 - Honolulu Civil Beat

Two yellow and white Dallas Area Rapid Transit light rail streetcars at station in Dallas, Texas.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region

At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

April 3, 2025 - KERA News

Blue and white Seattle Link light rail train exiting concrete Downtown Bellevue Tunnel in Bellevue, WA.

Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?

Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

April 7, 2025 - Todd Litman

Amtrak Acela

How to Make US Trains Faster

Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.

2 hours ago - Bloomberg CityLab

Mural showing tools and craft supplies with banner reading 'Things are made here' in front of makerspace in Columbia, Missouri.

Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs

A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.

3 hours ago - Next City

Close-up of wood log with emerald ash borer larvae tracks etched in the wood.

Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests

The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.

4 hours ago - The Bemidji Pioneer