Localised Private Network Licence
The Localised Private Network Licence is issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for operating a radio-communication network within a specific localised area in Singapore, such as a construction site or a building compound. The licence is valid for 1 year, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon complete submission of all required information.
- Validity
- 1 year
- Processing time
- within 10 working days upon complete submission of all information
- Issuing authority
- INFOCOMM MEDIA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IMDA)
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Who needs the Localised Private Network Licence
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
What's involved in getting the Localised Private Network Licence
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Localised Private Network Licence enables businesses to operate a radio-communication network confined to a specific area, facilitating communication for various purposes such as security, construction operations, or health and safety measures.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be granted, several conditions must be met. A detailed explanation of the network's purpose is required, outlining why the network is necessary. This may include specific applications like security services or operational needs in construction. For high power networks or fixed stations, a letter from management justifying the network's necessity is also needed. Additionally, the desired frequency range and the number of mobile stations must be specified, along with the required output power for the network. The operating location must be clearly defined, including the address and GPS coordinates. If the location lacks a postal code, such as in the case of construction sites, a site map must be provided.
How the agency reviews and decides
The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) reviews the application based on the completeness of the documentation provided. This includes assessing the justification for the network, the technical specifications, and the operational details. The agency may also conduct checks to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the Localised Private Network Licence can stall for several reasons. Incomplete documentation is a frequent issue, particularly if the purpose of the network is not clearly articulated or if technical specifications are missing. Additionally, discrepancies in the operating location details, such as failing to provide a site map for areas without postal codes, can lead to delays. Ensuring all required information is accurate and complete is crucial to avoid these common pitfalls.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- Purpose of the proposed network
- Include a detailed explanation of why you need the network (examples include: for security services, operation of cranes in construction sites, for production lines or health and safety purposes).
- For a high power network or fixed station: Include a letter from your management on why the network is required.
- Desired frequency range for the network
- Include the alternate frequency range if the desired range is not unavailable.
- Number of units of mobile stations in the network
- Number of units of mobile stations in the network
- Required output power of the network
- Check with your vendor for the required output power if you are unsure.
- Operating location of the network
- Include the address and its GPS coordinates.
- Note: If your operating location does not have a postal code (such as a construction site or underground tunnel), you need to upload a site map. This can be in the form of a PDF or JPG file.
Localised Private Network Licence FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating a radio-communication network?
Yes, the Localised Private Network Licence is mandatory for operating a radio-communication network within a specific localised area in Singapore. Without this licence, businesses may face legal penalties for unauthorized communication operations.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your business can operate a radio-communication network within the defined localised area, facilitating effective communication for various operational needs, such as security, construction, or health and safety.
What happens if I operate without this licence?
Operating a radio-communication network without the Localised Private Network Licence can lead to legal repercussions, including fines and the potential shutdown of your communication operations. Compliance with licensing regulations is essential to avoid such risks.
How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?
Obtaining the Localised Private Network Licence is a separate process from incorporating your company. It is advisable to secure the necessary licences, including this one, after your company is incorporated to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements before commencing operations.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection of applications for the Localised Private Network Licence is incomplete documentation. This includes failing to provide a clear justification for the network's purpose or not including all required technical specifications and location details.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for the Localised Private Network Licence in Singapore, provided they meet all the necessary requirements and conditions set by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA).
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Other IMDA licences
Aircraft Station Licence
The Aircraft Station Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for the installation and operation of radio communication equipment on board Singapore registered aircraft. The licence is valid for 5 years, with processing typically completed immediately upon payment.
Arts Entertainment Licence
The Arts Entertainment Licence is issued by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for conducting various forms of arts entertainment in Singapore, including plays, concerts, and exhibitions. The licence is valid for specified dates and processing typically takes 20 working days from receipt of complete information.
Computer Online Service Licence
The Computer Online Service Licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for online news websites in Singapore that report on local news and current affairs and meet specific traffic criteria. Validity is agency-confirmed, with processing times available on the agency's website.
Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration (ESER)
The Enhanced Simplified Equipment Registration (ESER) is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for specific short range and low power devices in Singapore, including wireless microphones and telecommand systems. The licence is valid for 5 years, with processing typically completed immediately.
Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (with Frequency)
The Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (with Frequency) licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for temporary exhibitions of telecommunication equipment using radio frequency in Singapore. The licence is valid for a maximum of 90 days, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon submission of all required information.
Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (without Frequency)
The Exhibition of Telecommunication Equipment (without Frequency) licence is required by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) for temporary exhibitions of telecommunication equipment in Singapore. The licence is valid for a maximum of 6 months, with processing typically completed within 10 working days upon complete submission of all required information.