Class C Radio

In the United States, Class C radio stations are FM stations that operate at the highest power levels allowed for non-grandfathered FM stations, with effective radiated power (ERP) up to 100,000 watts and antenna heights above average terrain (HAAT) up to 600 meters. These stations typically provide wide coverage areas, often spanning large rural regions or covering multiple metropolitan areas. Class C stations are commonly found in less densely populated areas, where their high power and tall antenna heights can be fully utilized. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates the classification and technical specifications of these stations.