ICASA Publishes Draft Satellite Services Regulations for Public Comment

Posted 15 May 2026 Written by Acts Online
Category Communications & Digital Technologies

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has published draft amendments to two key regulatory frameworks governing satellite services under the Electronic Communications Act, No. 36 of 2005, inviting public representations by 29 June 2026.

The proposed amendments follow an inquiry into satellite services initiated by ICASA in August 2024, which culminated in the publication of a findings and reasons document in April 2025. The draft regulations seek to update the regulatory environment for satellite communication services, aligning licensing and spectrum fee structures with international standards and technological advancements.

The regulatory changes are split across two draft amendment instruments:

  • Draft Radio Frequency Spectrum Amendment Regulations: These amendments establish updated procedures and technical requirements for the licensing and coordination of satellite-related radio frequency spectrum.
  • Draft Radio Frequency Spectrum Fee Amendment Regulations: These amendments revise the fee structures, calculation methodologies, and exemptions applicable to satellite operators and service providers utilizing spectrum in South Africa.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: No direct individual obligations; legal and regulatory professionals must monitor the finalisation of these amendments to advise telecommunications clients accurately.
  • For your business: Telecommunications practices and compliance departments must review the draft fee structures to assess the financial impact on their firm’s own communication infrastructure or satellite-reliant services.
  • For your clients: Clients operating as satellite service providers, internet service providers (ISPs), or telecommunications operators must submit written comments to ICASA by 29 June 2026 to contest proposed fee increases or technical licensing hurdles.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/communications-satellite-services-regulations-out-for-comment

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