Regulating Wireless Communications Towers : Taiwan's Experience in Comparative Perspective

This article explores the wireless industry's struggle to meet consumer demand by siting its towers where needed while simultaneously addressing the issues voiced by local residents. After reviewing relevant regulations, I conclude that the controversies and uncertainties of the siting of wireless towers are not only a high cost to the operators, but also inhibit them fulfilling their legal obligations. From an operator's perspective, erecting a base station is not only a right, but also an obligation under relevant laws. Operators of wireless communications networks face a battle that will difficult to win alone. While more research needs to be done on how to balance the requirements of technology and the protection of public health, the Government of Taiwan should actively contribute to the development of the internal market by removing obstacles to the provision of wireless communications services