guidelines and procedures november 2017 - … energy pole attachment guidelines and procedures 2 ......

PoleAttachmentGuidelinesandProcedures

RevisionNovember2017

CenterPointEnergyPoleAttachmentGuidelinesandProcedures 2

POLEATTACHMENTGUIDELINESANDPROCEDURES

TableofContents

Pole Attachment Terminology ........................................................................................................ 3

SECTION 1. CenterPoint Energy & Third‐Party Communication Attachments ................................ 9

SECTION 2. Safety: Notice Working Near Overhead Electrical Distribution System ..................... 11

SECTION 3. Distribution Planning for Bona Fide Future Use of Distribution Poles ....................... 12

SECTION 4. Structure of the Distribution Pole and Working Zones .............................................. 13

SECTION 5. Selection of Qualified Contractors ............................................................................. 14

SECTION 6. Application for CenterPoint Energy Distribution Pole Attachments .......................... 15

SECTION 7. Make‐Ready ................................................................................................................ 17

SECTION 8. Inspection ................................................................................................................... 18

SECTION 9. Unauthorized Attachments, Audit, and Irregular Plant Conditions (IPCs) ................. 19

SECTION 10. Attachment, Design, Engineering, and Construction Requirements........................ 22

SECTION 11. Wireless Attachment Standard ................................................................................ 26

SECTION 12. Removal Notification and Abandonment Attachment ............................................. 34

SECTION 13. Pole Transfer ............................................................................................................. 35

SECTION 14. Property Rights ......................................................................................................... 36

SECTION 15. Foreign Poles ............................................................................................................ 37

SECTION 16. Communication Attachments in Transmission ROW ............................................... 38

SECTION 17. Communication Attachments on Distribution Pole with Streetlight ....................... 39

SECTION 18. General Construction and Safety Considerations .................................................... 40

SECTION 19. Identification Guidelines for Communications Cables ............................................. 41

SECTION 20. Pole Maintenance Identifiers ................................................................................... 42


PoleAttachmentTerminology

NOTE: The following frequently‐used terms, provided here for general reference purposes,appear throughout theCenterPointEnergyPoleAttachmentGuidelinesandProceduresandrelate directly to electric power and communications attachments on CenterPointEnergy’sPoles.

Abandoned Attachment – Attachment for which attachment fees have not been paidand/or attachment towhich an Attacher has been unresponsive to CenterPoint Energy’sinquiriesorcommunicationsformorethansix(6)months.

AMS–CenterPointEnergyAdvancedMeteringSystem.

Anchor – A device supporting and holding in place conductors terminated at a pole orstructureburiedandattachedtothepolebywayofaguywiretocounteractthemechanicalforcesoftheseconductors.

Application for Temporary Construction Permit – (TCP Application or Application)CenterPoint Energy formused by potential Pole Attacher to provide proposed aerial andwirelessdesignandconstructiondatatoCenterPointEnergytorequestPoleattachments.

Attacher – Provider of cable television and/or telecommunications services to whichCenterPoint Energyhas granted certain non‐exclusive rights to use its Poles, pursuant toSection224oftheCommunicationsAct,asamended,otherapplicablelaw,andtheparties’PoleAttachmentAgreement.

Audit – Pole attachments field survey performed by CenterPoint Energy or one of itsapproved contractors by which Authorized Attachments are confirmed or UnauthorizedAttachmentsareidentified.

AuthorizedAttachment–Attachmentthathasbeen licensedthroughtheApplication forTemporaryConstructionPermitProcess.

As‐BuiltConstruction–AnAttacher’sactualaerialcableand/orwireless installationsonCenterPoint Energy’s Poles, based on an originally submitted Application for TemporaryConstructionPermitforPoleAttachments,and/oranynecessarydesignmodificationsandfield changesmade by the Attacher or changes requested by CenterPoint Energy duringactualAttacherconstruction.

Boxed‐InPole –A polewith cable attachments installed onboth the street side and theoppositesideofautilitypoleobstructingsafepoleaccessandeitherroutineoremergencypolereplacement.

Cable Tagging – Method for the physical identification in the field of an attachingcompany’saerialcableplantattachedtoCenterPointEnergy’spoles.


CableTelevisionSystemAttachments–Anyfiberopticcable,coaxialcable,thecableandwiresconnectedtosuchfiberopticcableandcoaxialcable,andanyandallsupportingcableused by cable television operators providing only cable television services (“CableAttachments”),asmaybemorefullydescribedintheGuidelines;

CommunicationsAct‐CommunicationsActof1934,asamended.

Communication Service Drop – Communications cable from Attacher’s existingattachment toanewcustomer’spremises for thesolepurposeofprovidingservice to thenewcustomer.

Communications Space – The lowest workable or usable zone on a Pole, locatedimmediatelybelowtheCommunicationsWorkersSafetyZone.TheCommunicationsSpaceis used primarily for the placement of cable television, broadband, fiber, and telephonewiresusedtodelivercommunicationsservices.

CommunicationWorkersSafetyZone–thespacebetweenthelowestsupplyconductororequipmentandthehighestcommunicationcablesorequipment.SpacingrequirementsforCommunicationWorkersSafetyZoneandotherworkersarespecifiedbytheNESC.

ConduitRiser–PVCtubingusedtoprotectcable/fiberfacilitiesthatareattachedtoaPoleviaStand‐OffBracketsthattransitionsfacilitiesfromundergroundtooverhead.

DAS/SMALL CELL – A Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is a network of spatiallyseparated antenna nodes connected to a common source via a fiber connection thatprovideswirelessservicesupportedbyradioandbatteryback‐upequipment.

Design Change – An Attacher’s field change in plant design resulting in an As‐BuiltConstructiondifferent from the proposed construction as shownon theRouteMap in anoriginallysubmittedTCPApplication.

DistributionSystem–Theportionofanelectricpowersystemthatdistributeselectricityfromapowersubstationtoconsumersatindividualmeteredlocations.

ElectricalGround–Aconductingconnectionbywhichanelectriccircuit,orequipment,isconnectedtotheearthorsomeconductingbodythatservesinplaceoftheearth.

FacilitiesExtensionAgreement–aserviceagreement,pursuanttoCNP’sTariffapprovedbythePublicUtilityCommissionofTexas,thatmustbeexecutedbyCNPandtheAttacherrequestingMake‐ReadyservicestobeperformedbyCNP.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) – The federal Government agencyresponsibleforimplementingandenforcingthepoleaccessrequirementsofSection224oftheCommunicationsActasamended.

ForeignPole–AutilitypolethatisnotownedbyCenterPointEnergy.


Ground Furniture – The electronic and electric hardware used to support wirelessantenna(s)locatedseparatefromtheNodePole,typicallylocatedatthemeterservicepole.

GroundRod–Alargeconductorattachedtoonesideofthepowersupplythatservesasthecommonreturnpathforcurrentfrommanydifferentcomponentsinthecircuit.

GroundingSystem –Apowersystemproviding fora commonreturnpath (toearth) forelectricalcurrentandforanappropriatecurrent‐carryingcapabilityforabsorbinganexcessamountofcurrent.

Guidelines – The Pole Attachment Guidelines and Procedures of CenterPoint EnergyHoustonElectricLLC,asmaybeamendedfromtimetotime.

GuyWire–Alsoknownasstrand,messenger,supportwire,structurecable,orguy,aguywire is designed to offset the lateral pull of the electrical wires and/or communicationscableattachments.

HorizontalExtensionArm–AbracketextensionarmattachedatthePoleforthepurposeofsuspendingcablesorconductorsatadistancefromapole.

Irregular Plant Conditions (IPCs) – Conditions associated with the Attacher’s facilitiesthat CenterPoint Energy has determined adversely impact the safety and reliability of itselectricdistributionnetwork.

LambertMap –Designation for a singleCenterPointEnergymapgrid. It isbasedon theLambert conic projection system, showing among other things, roadways, poles andelectricalfacilities.OnerectangularLambertis13,100feeteasttowestby8,600feetnorthtosouth,itencompassesapproximately4squaremiles.

Make‐Ready–Allworkonanexistingpole,includingbutnotlimitedtosuchworkrequiredto rearrange and/or relocate existing attachments by CenterPoint Energy and/or thirdparties, and to correct any existing safety violations, that CenterPoint Energymay deemnecessarypre‐installationtoensurethatanyPoleforwhichAttacherhasrequestedaccessissafe,reliable,andinsuitableconditiontosupportAttacher’sproposedAttachment.

Mid‐Span Clearance – The required NESC vertical separation between power andcommunicationsconductorsmidwaybetweentwodistributionpoles.Mid‐spanclearanceisthe controlling factor in determiningNESC clearancebetweenpower and communicationlines.

National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) – The collaborative national standard of theInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE) and the American NationalStandardsInstitute(ANSI),providingforthesafeguardingofpersonsfromhazardsarisingfromtheinstallation,operationormaintenanceof:(1)conductorsandequipmentinelectricsupply stations; and (2) overhead andundergroundelectrical supply and communicationlinesandequipment,asmaybeamendedfromtimetotime.


NodePole – Distribution Pole used to accommodate communications hardware (DAS orSmall CellWireless Technology) that receive and transmit data does not include GroundFurniture.

Neutral – The conductor used to carry unbalanced current. In single‐phase systems, theconductorusedforareturncurrentpath.

Overlash(ing)–Aspecificmethodofattachingmultiplecommunicationscablesonasinglesupportingstrand,asfurtherdescribedintheFCC’sorders.

Pole–CenterPointEnergy’spolessupportingelectricalconductorsof lessthan69kV,notincludingTransmission‐onlypoles, dedicatedmetal poles, street lightpoles, and all otherSpecialPurposePolesorpolelinesofnon‐standarddesignthatdonotsupportCenterPointEnergy’selectricdistributionsystem.

PoleAttachmentAgreement–AgreementexecutedbyCenterPointEnergyandAttachersetting forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which Attachermay obtain access toCenterPointEnergy’sPoles, theapplicablepoleattachmentrate(s)orrate formula(s),andtheprocesswherebyAttachermayobtainaSiteLicensetouseanyindividualCenterPointEnergyPolewithinsuchSiteLicense.

Pole‐Top–Polespacelocatedatthetopofthepole,abovetheSupplySpace.

Post‐InstallationInspection–InspectionperformedbyCenterPointEnergytoensurethatAttacher’s installationconforms to thedesigndataapproved inAttacher’sApplication forTemporary Construction Permit, and fully complieswith theNESC, these Guidelines, andapplicableregulations,codes,andlaws.

Primary – A primary voltage distribution circuit delivering electric power throughelectricallychargedconductorsusuallyconsidered tobebetweenasubstationorpointofsupplyandthedistributiontransformers.

PublicSafetyDepartment–CenterPointEnergygroupresponsibleforpromotingelectricsafetyandeducatingthegeneralpublicaboutthedangersofelectricity.

Radiofrequency”or“RF”‐Electromagneticradiationcommittedemittedbyantennas.

Regulator–Adeviceusedtocontrol(increaseanddecrease)thevoltageofacircuit.

Route Map – Attacher’s map showing intended aerial cable route, and/or WirelessAttachmentlocation,usingindividualPoles.

SafeApproachDistance–Theminimumseparationthatmustbemaintainedbetweenanypersonon,orproximate to thePole, andanyRF‐emittingWirelessAttachment, toensurethattheuncontrolledMPEforsuchRF‐emittingWirelessAttachmentisnotexceeded.

ServiceStandards–CenterPointEnergy’selectricservicestandardpracticescompiledforthebenefitandguidanceofcustomers,contractors,electricians,architects,andengineers.


SinglePhase – Thedistribution of electric powerusing a system inwhich the voltage istakenfromonephaseofaThree‐Phasesource.

SiteLicense – CenterPoint Energy map document authorizing an Attacher’s non‐exclusive right of attachment and ongoing use of specific CenterPoint Energy Poles asindicatedthereon,andasCenterPointEnergyandAttachermayamendfrom,timetotime.

SpecialPurposePole–aCenterPointEnergyPolethatisdesignedtosupportdistributionfacilities for the purpose of providing safe and reliable power delivery service of whichtheseincludebutarenotlimitedtoPoleswithtransformersbanks,sectionalizers,switchingdevices,reclosers,regulators,capacitorbanks, three‐phaseMUGterminalpoles,andpoleswithanyAMSrelatedequipment.

Stand‐OffBracket – 9 to 10 inch hardware bracket used to extendConduit Risers awayfromPolestoprovidesaferclimbingspace.

SupplySpace–theupperportionofadistributionpolelocatedabovetheCommunicationsWorkers Safety Zone, used to support electric cables andother electric equipment. OnlyCenterPoint Energy‐authorized electrical workers are allowed to work in or above theSupplySpace.

TelecommunicationsAttachments – Any fiber optic cable, coaxial cable, the cable andwiresconnectedtosuchfiberopticcableandcoaxialcable,andanyandallsupportingcableused to provide Telecommunications Service as defined in Section 153(51) of theCommunicationsActof1934,asamended,(“Act”),includingwithoutlimitation,BroadbandInternetAccessService,asdefinedintheFCC’srules,oranycombinationofcabletelevisionserviceand/ortelecommunicationsservicewithanyotherservicenototherwiseclassifiedby the FCC (“Commingled Service”), including but not limited to Voice over InternetProtocol(“VoIP”)(“TelecommunicationsAttachments”).

TemporaryConstructionPermit(TCP)–CenterPointEnergymapdocumentdesignatingthePolesonwhichanAttacherhasbeenauthorizedtoplaceattachments,authorizingsuchAttacher to proceed with the specific installations approved by CenterPoint Energy, asrequestedinAttacher’sApplication.

TexasHealth&SafetyCode–CodeenactedbytheTexasLegislativeCounciltoensurethesafetyofTexasworkers.

Three‐Phase –A circuit consistingof three conductorswhere the current andvoltage ineachconductor(phase)is120°outofphasewitheachotherphase.

Three‐PhaseMajorUnderground(MUG)TerminalPole–alsoknownasa“dippole,”isamedium‐voltage,three‐phase,coppered‐outswitchthatterminatesatthepothead,whichisused to transition between three‐phasemedium voltage overhead lines and three‐phaseundergroundmediumvoltagecablethateithercontinuestofeedthecircuitorathree‐phaseundergroundTransformer.


Transformer – An electro‐magnetic device used to change the voltage in an alternatingcurrentelectricalcircuit.

Transmission – Normally, the highest voltage network of an electric utility system, thatcarriespowerover the longestdistances, typicallyoperatingatvoltagesof69kV (69,000volts)orgreater.

U‐Guard–U‐shapedcovermoldingdesignedtoprotectcommunicationscable facilities islocatedwherecommunicationscircuitsleadfromundergroundtooverhead.

Unauthorized Attachment– Any attachment which has not been licensed through theApplication for CenterPoint Energy Distribution Pole Attachment process described inSection6oftheseGuidelines.

Unusable Space – The space on the pole below the applicable minimum clearancerequirementasdefinedbyfederal,state,orlocalregulations.

WirelessTelecommunicationsAttachments(orWirelessAttachment(s))–Forpurposesofthisdocument,a“WirelessAttachment”isdefinedasanantennaorantennaarray,andallsupporting cables, wires, hardware, support mounts, and any other communicationsequipment that CenterPoint Energymay approve for installation on the same Pole, as isused to providewireless Telecommunications Service, as that term is defined in Section153(51)oftheCommunicationsAct.


SECTION1.CenterPointEnergy&Third‐PartyCommunicationAttachments

CenterPoint EnergyHoustonElectric, LLC (CenterPoint Energy or CNP) is requiredby theCommunications Act of 1934, as amended, (47 U.S.C. 224) and the FCC’s implementingregulationstoprovidecertaincommunicationsserviceprovidersnon‐discriminatoryaccesstoitsPolesforthesolepurposeofattachingfacilitiesusedtodelivercabletelevisionand/ortelecommunications services. CenterPoint Energy’s Pole Attachment Guidelines andProcedures(Guidelines)setforth:

Thegeneralterms,conditions,andprocessespursuanttowhichCenterPointEnergy shall accommodate such attachments in the course of conductingCenterPointEnergy’scoreoperatingbusiness,and

Therequireddesign,construction,andengineeringstandardsandpracticesthatmustbefollowedbyallentitiesattachingtoCenterPointEnergy’sPoles.

Notwithstanding CenterPoint Energy’s limited obligation to provide access to its Poles,permissiontomakeanattachmenttoanyPoleorPolesmaybedenied forreasonswhereinsufficient capacity exists, or for any reason related to safety, reliability, and generallyacceptedengineeringpractices.

It is CenterPoint Energy’s practice to install Poles of sufficient height to allow futureinstallation of transformers and other electrical equipment on its Poles, as needed tosupport CenterPoint Energy’s core business of delivering electrical service. Therefore,CenterPoint Energy’s design standards only allow for the attachment of communicationfacilitiestotheextentCenterPointEnergyhassufficientcapacitytoinstalltransformersandotherelectricalequipmentonitsPoles.Becausesuchspacemaynotbeneededforseveralyears as part of Distribution Operations planning, it is CenterPoint Energy’s practice toallow interim use of the electrical space for communication attachments. This practiceavoids the time and expenseof replacing existingPoleswithnew, taller Poles toprovidespaceforeachnewcommunicationsattachment,whilestillreservingspaceforCenterPointEnergy’s bona fide future use. In the event any electrical space temporarily used by thecommunicationattachmentsisneededinthefuturetoinstallelectricalfacilities,allaffectedAttacherswillberequiredtorelocatetheirfacilitiesfromsuchreservedspace.CenterPointEnergy,initssolediscretion,mayinstallanewortallerPole(s)whererequestedtodosobyanAttacher,atsuchAttacher’ssolecostandexpense.(SeeSection3)

TheCenterPointEnergy’sPoleAttachmentGuidelinesandProceduresareintendedtoassistAttachers in facilitatingPoleattachment requests. Inaddition to following theGuidelines,Attachersarerequiredto:

(1) NegotiateavalidPoleAttachmentAgreementwithCenterPointEnergy;(2) Remain in full compliancewith applicable CenterPoint Energy’s insurance

andcreditworthinessrequirements;and(3) Meet any other CenterPoint Energy, local, state, and federal laws, codes,

regulations,andpolicies.


Strict adherence to CenterPoint Energy’s Guidelines will ensure a smooth applicationprocessandallowcompletionofconstructionwithminimaldelayandconflict.

TheportionsofthisdocumentrelatingtodesignandconstructionofAttacher’sfacilitiesinproximity to CenterPoint Energy’s Distribution System are intended to be used inconjunction with the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), and do not in any waysupersedeorreplacetheNESC.

In all situations, it is the ongoing responsibility of the Attacher to be familiar with andadhere to the NESC and these Guidelines during installation, maintenance, and relatedactivities involving their facilities attached to CenterPoint Energy’s facilities. Anyattachment found to be in violation of the NESC, any provision of these Guidelines,CenterPointEnergyconstructionStandards,CenterPointEnergyServiceStandardsorothercodes,laws,orregulations,maybesubjecttoremovalbyCenterPointEnergyatthecostoftheAttacher(SeeSection10).

Policiesandproceduresforrequesting,constructing,maintaining,repairing,andmodifyinganyattachmenttoCenterPointEnergy’sPolessetforthintheGuidelinesmaybeamendedfromtimetotime.


SECTION2.Safety:NoticeWorkingNearOverheadElectricalDistributionSystem

AttachingcompaniesareonnoticethatCenterPointEnergy’sPolesarepartofanoverheadelectricalDistributionSystem.ThepowerlinesattachedtothesePolesshouldbepresumedenergized at all times, and all persons, including attaching companies’ employees andcontractors,mustexercisecautionandtakeallreasonableprecautionswhenworkingonornearelectricutilityPolesand/ornearhigh‐voltagelines.

CenterPointEnergyhasdeterminedthatPolesconstructedofsteelareunsafeforclimbing,and for that reason,prohibits itsownemployeesand independent contractors, aswell asemployeesandindependentcontractorsofAttachersorotherPolelicensees,fromclimbingsuchPolesforanyreason. CenterPointEnergythereforeshallrejectanyrequesttoattachtosuchPolesunlesstherequestingAttacherdemonstratesthatsuchPolesmaybeaccessedsafelythroughsomemeansotherthanclimbing.

CertainFederalregulationsandTexasstatutesdirectlyaddressconstructionactivityinthevicinityofoverheadelectric lines,andviolatorsaresubject tocriminalpenaltiesandcivilliabilities. These laws apply to employers, contractors, owners and any other parties orpersonsresponsiblefororengagedinconstructionactivities.

CenterPointEnergy’sPublicSafetyDepartmentpromotes electric safety awareness to thepublic through seminars and demonstrations. Formore specific safety information or toarrange for free safety demonstrations, attaching companies are encouraged to contactCenterPointEnergy’sPublicSafetyDepartmentat713‐945‐6707.

EmergencySituationsIn theeventofcontactbyconstructionequipmentwithoverheadorundergroundelectriclines, call 713‐207‐2222 to provide information as to the location of the incident andwhetherthesituationislifethreatening.


SECTION3.DistributionPlanningforBonaFideFutureUseofDistributionPoles

CenterPoint Energy’s Service Standards only allow for the attachment of communicationfacilitiestotheextentCenterPointEnergyhassufficientcapacitytoinstalltransformersandotherelectricalequipmentonitsPoles.ThepolespaceforwhichaccessisgrantedthoughaTemporaryConstructionPermit or a Site License is subject toCenterPointEnergy’s bonafide plan for future development and expansion of its electric distribution facilities, andtherefore,maybereclaimedbyCenterPointatsuchtimeasitisneededforitscoreelectricalservicebusiness.Intheeventanyelectricalspace,temporarilyusedbythecommunicationattachments,isneededinthefuturetoinstallelectricalfacilities,allaffectedAttacherswillberequiredtorelocatetheirfacilitiesfromsuchreservedspace.

Followingnotice of such a requirement, Attachers are required to relocate their facilitieswithin45daysofthenotice.


SECTION4.StructureoftheDistributionPoleandWorkingZones

In all situations, it is the ongoing responsibility of the Attacher to be familiar with andadhere to theNESCdefinitions, rules, and criteria related to all sections of a distributionPole.

TheDistributionPoleincludes:

Pole‐Top TheSupplySpace CommunicationWorkersSafetyZone CommunicationsSpace UnusableSpace

ThePole‐TopisthePolespacelocatedatthetopofthePoleintheSupplySpace.

The Supply Space is reserved for electrical supply facilities. Most Supply Space wiringconsists of uninsulated conductors. The Supply Space may include separate facilitiesoperating at different voltages; for safety reasons, the highest voltages are locateduppermostonthePole.

CommunicationWorkers Safety Zone is the safety zone, or “neutral” space, between thelowestelectricalsupplyconductororequipmentandthehighestcommunicationcablesorequipment.

The Communications Space is the portion of Pole containing Cable Attachments,TelecommunicationsAttachments,andothercommunicationscables.

The Unusable Space is the space on the pole below the applicable minimum clearancerequirementasdefinedbyfederal,state,orlocalregulations.


SECTION5.SelectionofQualifiedContractors

Attachersareresponsiblefordeterminingthequalificationsofthecommunicationsworkersretained to install, maintain, or repair their attachments. Attachers are responsible forcomplying with all NESC and other requirements related to the communication worker.CenterPointEnergy,initssolediscretion,reservestherighttoprohibitanycommunicationsworker found performing in an unsafe manner, or whom CenterPoint Energy otherwisedeterminesisnotqualified,toperformtheworkforwhichtheywereretained.

AnAttachermayuse itsownqualifiedworkcrewsor independentcontractorsof itsownchoice to perform work within the Communications Space; provided, however, thatCenterPointEnergymayprohibitanysuchindependentcontractorfromworkingwithintheCommunications Space if CenterPoint Energy concludes, in its sole discretion, that suchcontractorisnotqualifiedtoperformtheworkspecified.

All work performed within or above the Supply Space, including work related to theconstruction, installation,maintenance, or repair ofPole‐TopWirelessAttachments,mustbeperformedbyCenterPointEnergy’s authorizedElectricalWorkers. ElectricalWorkersare those specially trained electrical linemen with the skillset to work with and aroundelectricalwiresinorabovetheelectricSupplySpace.TheseworkersmaybeemployeesofCenterPointEnergyorCenterPointEnergy‐authorizedelectricalindependentcontractors.

WirelessAttachmentapplicantsshallestablishaseparatecontractualrelationshipwithanyCenterPoint Energy‐authorized electrical independent contractor who shall perform allapplicants’workonCenterPointEnergy’sPoleswithinorabovetheelectricalSupplySpaceunderCenterPointEnergy’sdirectionandsupervision.

Attacher(s) shall demonstrate that all employees, contractors, including the qualifiedelectricalindependentcontractors,andagentsofAttacherworkingonCenterPointEnergy’sPoles have received the training required by the FCC for Hazardous Radio FrequencyRadiationsafety(SeeSection11).


SECTION6.ApplicationforCenterPointEnergyDistributionPoleAttachments

Allaccesspermissionmustbeinwriting,andnoverbalpermissiontoattachtoCenterPointEnergyPoleswillbeissued.

Operating under the terms and conditions of a current Pole Attachment AgreementwithCenterPoint Energy, a prospective Attacher may request access to CenterPoint Energy’sPoles through an Application for a Temporary Construction Permit. The Attacher mustprovide complete, accurate, and sufficient information inorder forCenterPointEnergy toreview theApplication. If after preliminary review, anApplication is deemed incomplete,CenterPointEnergywillrejecttheApplicationinitsentirety.TheApplicationmustincludeinformationrelatedtotheproposedattachmentsandanyexistingfacilitiesthatwouldaffectthe approval of the attachment (i.e., the existence or request to install a riser, etc.).CenterPoint Energy shall approveor deny, inpart or inwhole, theApplicationwithin45daysbasedon:

Safety; Capacity; Reliability;or GeneralEngineeringPrinciples.

CenterPointEnergymaydenyanyproposedattachment(s)thatCenterPointEnergydeems:

Non‐compliantwiththeNESC,theGuidelines,orotherapplicablelaw; RequiresuseofanyPolewithinsufficientcapacity;or Otherwisewouldcompromisethesafety,reliability,orsoundengineeringof

CenterPointEnergy’sfacilities.

TheTCPApplicationcanbeobtainedbyemailingfjupoles@centerpointenergy.com.

PoleLoadingAnalysis

InconjunctionwithaTCPApplication forAttacher’snew installation,CenterPointEnergymay require Attacher to provide a pole loading analysis, including a structural andclearanceanalysisforPoleswithinanAttacher’sproposedroute,atAttacher’sexpense.Thepoleloadinganalysisshallbeperformedandcertifiedbyathird‐partyprofessionalengineer(P.E.) throughoneofCenterPointEnergy‐approvedengineering firms. Theprovisionofapole loadinganalysisbyAttacherdoesnotconstituteanapprovalofaTCPApplicationbyCenterPointEnergy.

TemporaryConstructionPermitIf Attacher’s Application is complete, and CenterPoint Energy approves the Application,CenterPointEnergywillissueaTemporaryConstructionPermitcontingentthatanyMake‐Readyworkhasbeencompleted(SeeSection7,MakeReady).


TemporaryConstructionPermitswillautomaticallyexpire90daysafterissuanceunlesstheAttacher requests an extension. Only one extension will be given for a 30‐day period.Attachers are required to obtain a revised Temporary Construction Permit following therequest for extension. If permitted attachments are not installed within the 30‐dayextensionperiod,andtheAttacherstilldesirestomaketheattachments,theAttachermustsubmitanewApplication.AttacherisprohibitedfromaccessingCenterPointEnergy’sPolesiftheTemporaryConstructionPermithasexpired.

PolerentalchargesshallbeappliedimmediatelyuponissuanceoftherelevantTemporaryConstructionPermits.Thechargeswillbedetailedonthefollowingyear’sannualinvoice.

Upon completion of construction,Attacher shouldnotifyCenterPoint Energyby e‐mail [email protected],or itsdesignated inspector,willconductaPost‐InstallationInspectionofAttacher’sAs‐Builtconstruction.WhenAttacher’sAs‐Built construction passes Post‐Installation Inspection, CenterPoint Energywill issue aSiteLicense.

If Attacher’s As‐Built Construction, at any time, does not comply with NESC and theseGuidelines,Attachermustresolvedeficienciesaccordingtothe inspector’s instructions,orCenterPoint Energy will not issue a Site License, and the affected attachments will betreatedasUnauthorizedAttachments.AlldeficienciesnotingNESCsafetyviolationsmustbecorrected as soon as possible, but no later than 2 days from notice of the deficiency. AllotherNESCdeficienciesmustbecompletedwithin30days’noticeofthedeficiency.

Attacher’s construction crews installing or maintaining communication equipment mustcarryacopyoftheTemporaryConstructionPermitorSiteLicenseforthelocationinwhichthey are working. Failure to provide such documentation upon request is grounds forCenterPointEnergyfieldpersonneltohaltactivitiesatthesite.ChangeinPoleOwnershipIn theevent thatCNPacquiresnewpoleswithexisting thirdparty attachments,CNPwillnotifyexistingAttacher(s)ofthechangeinownership.

IntheeventthatCNPandanythird‐partyAttacherinheritedinthepoleswapdonothaveanexistingPoleAttachmentAgreement,CNPwillrequireAttacherenterintoanagreementwith CNP. Without a Pole Attachment Agreement in place, these attachments areUnauthorizedAttachmentsandaresubjecttoremovalatAttacher’sexpense(SeeSection9).


SECTION7.Make‐Ready

CenterPointEnergywillnotrearrangeorrelocateanyattachmentsorotherfacilitiesownedoroperatedbythirdpartiesonitsPolestoaccommodateplacementofanynewattachment.

Intheeventanysuchadjustmentsarerequiredpre‐installation,anAttacherisresponsibleforcoordinatingsuchworkwiththeappropriatethirdparties,andasappropriate,directlycompensatingthirdpartiesforperformingtheworkrequested.

Where Make‐Ready is required to provide space for Attacher’s installation, the specificMake‐ReadyadjustmentrequestedshouldbestatedontheApplication.

If Attacher notified CenterPoint Energy of its desire to doMake‐Ready in its Application,CenterPointEnergywillprovideacostestimatetoAttacherfortheCNPrelatedMake‐Readywork at the requested Pole locations. CenterPoint Energywill schedule theMake‐Readyupon receipt of payment and an executed Facilities Extension Agreement by Attacher. ATemporaryConstructionPermitwillnotbeissueduntilallMake‐Readyworkiscompleted,includinganyMake‐Readyworkoradjustmentsrequiredbythird‐partyAttachers.

IfAttacherhasnotrequestedMake‐ReadyonitsApplicationandCenterPointEnergyfindsthat Make‐Ready is required due to Safety, Capacity, Reliability, or General EngineeringPrinciples,Attacher’sApplicationwillberejected(SeeSection6).IfAttacher’sApplicationisrejectedduetorequiredMake‐Ready,Attachermaychooseoneofthefollowing:

Withdraw its Application by taking no further action following anApplicationrejection;or

NotifyCenterPointEnergyofAttacher’sintenttoproceedwithMake‐ReadyandresubmitApplicationuponcompletionofMake‐Ready;or

SubmitanewApplicationrequestingtoattachtoPolesthatdonotrequireMake‐Ready(SeeSection10).


SECTION8.Inspection

CenterPoint Energy inspects the attachment of its Attachers’ facilities in relation toCenterPoint Energy’s facilities regardless of Pole ownership. To ensure Attacher iscompliant with CenterPoint Energy’s Pole Attachment Guidelines and Procedures or anyother applicable law, CenterPoint Energy will conduct Post‐Installation Inspections ofAttacher’s permitted attachments, at the sole cost and expense of Attacher. The Post‐InstallationInspectionforeachpermittedattachmentwilloccuranytimefive(5)daysafterthe proposed construction completion date indicated in the Temporary ConstructionPermit. The scheduledPost‐Installation Inspectionmaybepostponed if Attacher appliesfor an extension of the Temporary Construction Permit, and such application requests anewproposedconstructioncompletiondate is submitted.ThescheduledPost‐InstallationInspectionmayalsobecancellediftheAttachernotifiesCenterPointEnergyofcancellationof proposed construction for which the Attacher was issued a Temporary ConstructionPermit.

If Attacher fails to notify CenterPoint Energy of a postponement or cancellation ofconstruction,priortotheproposedconstructioncompletiondate,AttacherwillbebilledforallassociatedPost‐InstallationInspectionexpensesactuallyincurred.

In connectionwith any new installation, CenterPoint Energy, or its designated inspector,may perform pre‐installation inspections, and Post‐Installation Inspections at Attacher’sexpense.


SECTION9.UnauthorizedAttachments,Audit,andIrregularPlantConditions(IPCs)

CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to conduct occasionalAudits of its Poles for safetyand reliability. As a result, CenterPoint Energy requires that each UnauthorizedAttachment, be licensed through the site licensing process for unauthorized attachmentsdetailed in this section. Attacherwillbe responsible forall feesandcharges associatedwith the site licensing process, including, but not limited to, fees and charges associatedwithsurveyingCenterPointEnergy’spoles,allmake‐readywork,uptoandincludingpolereplacement,ifapplicable,andpost‐installationinspectionoftheattachment.

NotificationandApplication

UpondiscoveryofUnauthorizedAttachments,CenterPointEnergywillnotifytheAttacher,andAttachershallsubmitanApplicationforTemporaryConstructionPermittoCenterPointEnergyfortheidentifiedUnauthorizedAttachmentswithinsixty(60)daysofreceiptofsuchnotice.ApplicationsforUnauthorizedAttachmentsfoundasaresultofanAuditmustbesubmittedasfollows: Submitone(1)TCPApplicationperLambertMapquadrantto

[email protected]“AuditUNA”andtherespectiveLambertMapquadrantand;

SubmittherespectiveAuditmapsprovidedbyCenterPointEnergytotheAttacherintheoriginalAuditnoticeastheRouteMapfortheTCPApplication

For all other Unauthorized Attachment notifications or through Attacher notification of afieldDesignChange,orotherwise,Attachershall: Submitone(1)[email protected]

subject line “UnAuthorizedAttachment” and the respective LambertMapquadrantand;

Submit the respective Route Map for such Unauthorized Attachments, or theAttacher’s corresponding As‐Built Construction sketch showing the Design Changemadeinthefield

CENTERPOINT ENERGY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REMOVE ANY UNAUTHORIZEDATTACHMENT FOR WHICH A COMPLETED APPLICATION FOR TEMPORARYCONSTRUCTIONPERMIT(orDisputeasoutlinedbelow)ISNOTSUBMITTEDWITHINSIXTY(60)DAYSOFTHEDATEOFNOTIFICATION.The Attacher is responsible for ensuring that all Unauthorized Attachments are installedproperly and comply with all of the NESC, CNP’s Pole Attachment Guidelines andProcedures,andallotherapplicablestandardsandrequirementspriortotheconstructioncompletiondatesubmittedbytheAttacherontheTCPApplication.


BackRentandPenaltiesFor each Unauthorized Attachment, CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to charge anyinterest,feesand/orpenaltiesasprovidedforintheAttacher’sPoleAttachmentAgreement.Inaddition,forUnauthorizedAttachmentsfoundasaresultoftheaudit,theAttacherwillbechargedpoleattachmentfeesforthecurrentcalendaryearandbackrent. Intheeventofnon‐payment, CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to withhold the issuance of TCPsand/or Site Licenses until all pole attachment fees, back rent, and any interest and/orpenaltiesarepaidinfull.

DisputesThe Attacher may dispute Unauthorized Attachments; all disputes will be reconciledthrough a joint field check. In order to dispute, the Attacher shall submit to CenterPointEnergy a written notice of such dispute (including all supporting information anddocumentation),anditsrequestforajointfieldcheck,withinsixty(60)daysofthedateofCenterPointEnergy’snotificationtotheAttacher.Inspectionwillbescheduledtooccurnomore than thirty (30) days after the response received by CenterPoint Energy from theAttacher. In the event that the joint field check confirms the existing unauthorizedattachment, theAttacherwill incurallcostsassociatedwiththe joint fieldcheckandeachunauthorizedattachmentconfirmedthroughthejointfieldcheckmustbelicensedthroughthe site licensing process for unauthorized attachments detailed herein. In the event thejointfieldcheckconfirmstheAttacher’sposition,CenterPointEnergywillberesponsibleforitsowncostofthejointfieldcheck.IRREGULARPLANTCONDITIONS(IPCs)fromtheAuditSafetyIPCsAsdeterminedbyCenterPointEnergy,alldeficienciesnotingNESCsafetyviolationsmustbecorrected as soon as possible, but no later than 2 days from notice of the deficiency.CenterPointEnergyreserves theright to inspectattachments toverifyremediationat thesolecostofAttacher.

Non‐SafetyIPCsForeachIPC,CenterPointEnergyrequiresthattheAttacheracknowledgereceiptofnoticewithinsixty(60)daysof thedateofbeingnotified;andthattheAttachercorrecttheIPCsand submit its written notice confirming that all remediation is complete within onehundredeighty(180)daysofthedateofCenterPointEnergynotification. Allremediationshallbesubjectto inspectionattheAttacher’ssolecostandexpense. CenterPointEnergyrequiresthat,whereIPCsandUnauthorizedAttachmentsarefoundasaresultoftheauditandinthesameQuadrant,actionstoremediatetheIPCsbecompletedpriortotheproposedconstructioncompletiondateontheTCPfortheunauthorizedattachmentsintheQuadrant.In theevent the IPC isnotremediated,CenterPointEnergyreserves theright towithholdtheissuanceofTCPsuntilallremediationiscompleted.


IPCNotificationProcess Sendacknowledgementof receipt of the IPCnotificationwithin sixty (60)daysof

[email protected] Complete remediation and send confirmation of completion within one hundred

eighty(180)[email protected].

CENTERPOINT ENERGY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CANCEL ANY SITE LICENSE, AND TOREMOVEANYATTACHMENTFORWHICHANIPCISNOTREMEDIATEDWITHINTHETIMEFRAMEPRESCRIBEDHEREIN.IfthereareanyquestionsrelatedtotheauditpleasecontactCenterPointEnergyatAuditResults@CenterPointEnergy.com


SECTION10.Attachment,Design,Engineering,andConstructionRequirements

CenterPointEnergyisresponsibleforthesafeandreliabledeliveryofelectricpowerandoperatesitsDistributionSysteminaccordancewithGoodUtilityPracticeasdefinedbythePublicUtilityCommissionofTexas.Therefore,CenterPointEnergyrequiresthatallAttachers,orrespectiveAttacher’sdesigners,arethoroughlyfamiliarwithandpracticetherequirementsoftheNESC,theseGuidelines,CenterPointEnergyServiceStandards,andanyapplicablelocal,state,orfederallaws,codes,andregulations.To reduce the impact of communication attachments on CNP’s Distribution System, anyuncharacteristiccommunicationsattachmentdesignand/orconstructionpracticethatposeSafety, Reliability, Capacity, and Engineering concerns will not be accepted, and thoserespective attachments will not be allowed on CenterPoint Energy’s Poles. Attacherremainsatall timesresponsible fortheengineeringdesignandconstructionof itssystemandbecompliantwiththeseGuidelines.

No communications equipment is allowed inside the Supply Space, CommunicationsWorkersSafetyZone,orinsidetheUnusableSpaceofthePole(SeeSection4).

WheretherearenopreviousattachmentsonthePole,thefirstattachmentshallalwaysbeplaced at the lowest position on the Pole that complies with the greater clearancerequirements specified by the NESC, these Guidelines, and any applicable local, state, orfederal laws,codes,andregulations. Inallcases,subsequentcommunicationattachmentsshall be made as low as possible to maintain required clearances from existingcommunicationattachmentsandtheelectricsupplyconductors.

If a pre‐existing violation is identified on a Pole, additional attachments can only beinstallediftheexistingAttachersadjusttheirfacilitiestoprovidespace(SeeSection7).

Electric power servicemustbe installed in accordancewithCenterPoint Energy’s ServiceStandards found at http://www.centerpointenergy.com/en‐us/Documents/Service‐Standards.pdf. CenterPoint Energy does not sell retail electric service. Attacher mustarrangeforelectricservicethrougharetailelectricserviceprovider.

ConstructionRequirements1. Forthepurposeofthisdocument,aSpecialPurposePoleisaCenterPointEnergyPole

thatisdesignedtosupportdistributionfacilitiesforthepurposeofprovidingsafeandreliablepowerdeliveryserviceofwhichtheseincludebutarenotlimitedtoPoleswithtransformers banks, sectionalizers, switching devices, reclosers, regulators, capacitorbanks,three‐phaseMUGterminalpoles,andpoleswithanyAMSrelatedequipment.

a. Telecommunications Attachments and/or Cable Attachments shall not beinstalledonSpecialPurposePoles.

b. WirelessAttachmentsshallnotbeinstalledonSpecialPurposePoles.


2. Communications cables must be designed for installation on the same side of Poles(typically the street side) as CenterPoint Energy’s neutral and secondary conductorsandanyexistingcommunicationscables.IntheabsenceofanyexistinginstallationsonCenterPointEnergy’sPoles,communicationscablesmustbeinstalledonthestreetsideofPoles.

3. Communications cables must be designed for installation as low to the ground aspractical and to conform to CenterPoint Energy’s Distribution Standards and inaccordancewiththeNESCandanyStateand/orCountyregulations.

4. AttachermustbonditsmessengerinaccordancewiththeNESC.Ifanattachingcompanychooses to use a separate bond wire down the Pole, it must be bonded to theCenterPointEnergyelectricalbondatthebaseofthePoleinaccordancewiththeNESC.

5. CommunicationcablesmustbeidentifiedbytaggingeverycableateveryPole.Existinguntagged cables should be identified at every Pole during normal maintenance.UntaggedcablesmaybetreatedasUnauthorizedAttachments.

6. Attacher is responsible for coordinating adjustments of existing attachments withappropriate third parties; prior permission to adjust existing cable facilities betweenanynewAttacher and any existingAttacher shouldoccurbefore any adjustments aremade(SeeSection7).

7. To provide safe climbing space on the Poles (for workers’ belts) as of September 1,2012,onlyoneConduitRisernotlargerthan3”insidediameterandonlyoneStand‐OffBracket assembly may be attached directly to Poles. Conduit Risers larger than 3”insidediametermustbeinstalledusinga10‐inchstandoffbracket.Nomorethanthreecustomer Conduit Risers can be attached to a 10” Stand‐Off Bracket. Risers installedprior to September 1, 2012, will be grandfathered until the conduit and/or Pole isreplacedatwhich timeonlyoneConduitRisernot larger than3” insidediameterandonlyoneStand‐OffBracketassemblymaybeattacheddirectlytoPoles.

Reference:Service Standard 413.2

8. Horizontal Extension Arms are to be used by CenterPoint Energy personnel tomaneuvercables/conductorsaroundfixedobjectsonaPole,ineffortstoaccommodatesafePoleaccess.HorizontalExtensionArmsshallnotbeusedbyAttachers toachieverequiredverticalclearancesand/orhorizontalseparation.

9. CenterPointEnergydoesnotpermitrisersonThree‐PhaseMajorUnderground(MUG)TerminalPolesorPoleswithPole‐Topswitches.

10. UseofaU‐GuardislimitedtoonlyoneperPole(seeuseofConduitRiserw/Stand‐OffBracket)toaccommodatesafePoleclimbingaccess.


11. Overlashing shall be permitted only on Cable Attachments and Telecommunications

Attachments.a. The owner of the cable supporting the overlashed installation is responsible for

maintainingboththesupportingcableandtheoverlashedcableincompliancewithNESCandtheseGuidelines.

b. OverlashingwillbeallowedwithoutpriorapprovalprovidedthatsuchoverlashingisreportedtoCenterPointEnergybytheOwneroftheoverlashedcablenolessthan30dayspriortothedateonwhichoverlashingisanticipatedtooccur.

c. OverlashingtoanAttacher’sexistingcablewillbeaccommodatedbasedonthesamedesigncriteriaasothercommunicationinstallations.

d. CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to perform a pre‐installation inspectionand/orrequireAttachertoprovidetoCenterPointEnergyapoleloadinganalysisatthe Attacher’s expense. The pole loading analysis must be performed by aCenterPoint Energy‐approved third‐party engineering firm and certified by aprofessionalengineer.

e. OverlashedattachmentsnotreportedtoCenterPointEnergyatleast30dayspriortoinstallationwillbetreatedbyCenterPointEnergyasUnauthorizedAttachments.

12. CommunicationServiceDrops–Forthesolepurposeofprovidingnewservicetoanewcustomer, Attacher shall have the right to attach Communication ServiceDrop cablesextendingfromanexistingsupplylinetothenewcustomer’spremisesprovidedthat:a. Attacher shall provide toCenterPointEnergy advancewrittennotice of each such

ServiceDropnolessthanten(10)dayspriortothedateonwhichtheServiceDropis installed. IfAttacher fails toprovidesuchnoticewithin theaforementioned ten(10)daytimeframe,theattachmentsupportingsuchServiceDropmaybetreatedbyCenterPointEnergyasanUnauthorizedAttachment,andmaysubjectattachertoperformingadditionalMake‐ReadyatAttachersexpense.

b. The Communication Service Drop is an extension from a cable of a previouslylicensedattachment;

c. TheCommunicationServiceDropimpactsfewerthanfive(5)Poles;d. The distance between communications service drops should be sufficient to clear

line‐mechanicsclimbingspace,tothenearestcommunicationsservicedrop.e. TheCommunicationServiceDropisinstalledincompliancetheNESC,anyprovision

oftheseGuidelines,CenterPointEnergyServiceStandards,orothercodes, laws,orregulations;

f. TheCommunicationServiceDropattachmentswillbesubjecttoaPost‐InstallationInspectionbyCenterPointEnergy,oritsdesignatedinspector;and

g. AnyCommunicationServiceDropinstalleddirectlytothepolewillbetreatedasanadditional attachment and will be subject to terms and conditions of the PoleAttachmentAgreement.


13. Communications Grounding system must be on the opposite side of the Pole fromCenterPointEnergyGroundWirewith thebond communicationGrounding conductorwithCenterPointEnergy’sPolegroundtogetheratbaseofPole.

14. The Guy should be considered as part of the structure, with a designed/installationconsisting of proper tension to support the attachment(s) typically installed atAttacher’s dead‐ended facilities, and/or when a CenterPoint Energy guy is present.GuyingaddsstabilitytoaPolestructure,withoneendofthecablesecuredtothePolestructure,andtheotheranchoredtothegroundatadistancefromthePolestructure'sbase.Eachcompanyshall independentlyguyandanchoritsrespectivefacilitieswheresuch facilities add an unbalanced tension load to the Pole. Guy Anchors are part ofCenterPoint Energy’s Post‐Installation Inspection review. Communication cablesmustbe properly guyed and anchored before tensioning. Attacher must install separateguying and anchoring devices to secure their cables. Attachers are responsible forensuring that communication cables are independently guyed and anchored.Attachment toCenterPointEnergy’sguysandanchorsarenotanacceptabledesignorconstruction practice. Attacher is responsible for the costs of any damages toCenterPoint Energy’s facilities resulting from improper guying and anchoring of itsinstallation.BrokenordamagedelectricalguywiresshouldbereportedtoCenterPointEnergyat713‐207‐2222andshouldbeavoideduntilrepaired.

15. VegetationManagementa. Attacher is responsible for all vegetation trimming necessary on or around its

attachments,bothduringandafterinstallation.b. CenterPoint Energy does not provide any vegetation trimming services for

communicationfacilities.


SECTION11.WirelessAttachmentStandard

1.0 PURPOSE AND SCOPE.1.1 This section applies to all third‐partyWireless Attachmentsmade to CenterPoint

Energy distribution poles. The guidelines and requirements set forth herein areintended to ensure the safety of the general public, and of the employees and/orcontractorsofCenterPointEnergy,andofotherentities thatmaybeauthorizedtoaccessCenterPointEnergyPoles,allofwhommaybeexposedtohazardscausedbythird‐partyWirelessAttachments.

1.2 For purposes of this document, a Wireless Attachment is defined as anantenna or antenna array, and all supporting cables, wires, hardware,support mounts, and any other communications equipment thatCenterPoint Energymay approve for installation on the samePole, as isused to provide wireless Telecommunications Service, as that term isdefinedinSection153(51)oftheCommunicationsAct.1.2.1 It is understood that a single Wireless Attachment shall be

comprisedofnomore thanonepieceofequipmentcontacting thepole; however, such equipment may contain multiple antennas,andmultiple bandwidths, each requiring a separate cable affixedto the pole. The aggregatemust conform to CenterPoint Energy’sthencurrentstandard.

1.2.2 Batteries, Ground Furniture, and other ancillary or supporting

equipmentthatAttacher isrequiredtomaintainonthegrounddonotcompriseitsWirelessAttachment.

1.3 Wireless Attachments will be permitted only on CenterPoint Energydistribution poles. No Wireless Attachment will be permitted on anyother pole that is not subject to the requirements of Section 224 of theCommunicationsAct(47U.S.C.§224).

2.0 GENERAL WIRELESSATTACHMENT DESIGN CRITERIA.

2.1 Poles forWirelessAttachmentsmust be selected in accordancewith thefollowingcriteria:

2.1.1 Only in‐line tangent Poles will be considered for WirelessAttachments. Polesthataredeadended,corner,orguyed, framedfor junctions or laterals, have been determined unsuitable forWirelessAttachment.

2.1.2 Special Purpose Poles have been determined unsuitable forWirelessAttachments.


2.1.3 Each Pole selected for a Wireless Attachment’s electrical servicemust have a 120/240V secondary. No other secondary voltageswillbeusedforWirelessAttachments.

2.1.4 Each Pole selected for a Wireless Attachment must be located intheroadright‐of‐way(“ROW”),andmustbetruckaccessible.

2.2 Each individualWirelessAttachmentmustbe installedeitherat thePoleTop,orat thehighestposition inCommunicationsSpaceavailableat thetimeofattachment,on thePole forwhich the installationwasapproved.All Make‐Ready required to make space for Attacher’s WirelessAttachment,oranypolereplacement,shallbeatAttacher’ssolecostandexpense.(SeeSection7)

2.2.1 No Wireless Attachment (or supporting equipment) will bepermitted in the Unusable Space, the Communication WorkersSafetyZone,ortheSupplySpace.

2.2.2 CenterPoint Energymay require that anyWirelessAttachment beaffixed at the Pole Top on the basis of theRF criteria set forth inSection6below,oranycapacity,safety,reliability,orengineeringconsideration.

2.3 No more than one Wireless Attachment will be permitted on anyindividualPole.

2.4 No Wireless Attachment may be installed at any location, or in anymanner thatwould in CenterPoint Energy’s reasonable judgment impairitsemployeesandcontractorsfromascendingordescendinganyPole,orfromaccessinganyPoletop.

2.4.1 In all cases,Wireless Attachmentsmust be installed in line with,or in the same direction as CenterPoint Energy’s electricconductorsintheSupplySpace.

2.5 All supporting equipment, including, but not limited to the powerdisconnectswitch,batteries,powermetersandanyotherback‐uppowersources, all radio equipment and access nodes, electronic equipmentshelters and all equipment in such shelters, pedestals, supportingequipment cabinets or panels, and other necessary or ancillaryequipment that supports the Wireless Attachment must be placed inGroundFurniture.

2.6 All antenna equipment comprising the Wireless Attachment shall beaffixed to the Pole with locking through‐bolt design construction, toensurethatsuchequipmentdoesnotseparatefromthePole.


2.7 GroundingofallWirelessAttachmentsshallbe instrictaccordancewithNESC.

2.8 The minimum vertical distance between any Pole Top WirelessAttachmentandthehighestconductoronthePoleshallbethegreateroffive feet, or the SafeApproachDistance, based on suchAttachment’s RFemissions(SeeSection11,paragraph6.4.4).

2.8.1 Because CenterPoint Energy does not permit vertical Pole Topextensionsforanypurpose,replacementofthePole isrequiredinnearly all cases to establish sufficient vertical clearance toaccommodate a Pole Top Wireless Attachment. In such cases,CenterPoint Energy will, at Attacher’s request, and at Attacher’ssole expense, replace the existingPolewith a tallerPole, up to ofsufficientcapacitytosupportthePoleTopWirelessAttachment.

2.8.2 Inallcases,thetotalheightofthepole,andthePoleTopWirelessAttachment (as mounted) shall not exceed the total of sixty (60)feet.

2.9 Pole Top Wireless Attachments and Communications Space WirelessAttachments shall be connected to communications equipmentseparately located in Ground Furniture by cable encased in verticalconduitonthesideofthePole.

3.0 REQUESTSFOR APPROVAL OF WIRELESSATTACHMENTS.3.1 Each proposed Wireless Attachment design shall be evaluated only on

the basis of the final design specifications submitted by Attacher forCenterPointEnergy’sreview.

3.2 Each device that Attacher intends to be installed on CenterPointEnergy’sPolesmustbesubjecttoaonetime,pre‐applicationRFanalysisto determine whether such device operates within uncontrolledmaximum permissible exposure (“MPE”) limits at its maximum output.Such RF analysis must be prepared by an independent, certified thirdpartycontractor,atAttacher’ssoleexpense.

3.2.1 The following equipment information must be provided toCenterPoint Energy prior to, or concurrent with the pre‐applicationRFanalysis:


(a) CompanyInformation(SiteName,CompanyName,Address,ContactName,ContactTelephone/Email);

(b) %MaximumPermissibleExposure(UncontrolledandControlled)(c) System Information(Model/Name,LocationofAttachmentonPole,

TransmitFrequency,Power,MaxERP,AntennaCenterLine,AntennaGain,Beamwidth,SignalDirection)

3.2.2 The Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure: Record of FCC Compliance formappendedheretoasExhibitAshallbeusedtosatisfythedocumentationandcollection of equipment information, unless other satisfactorydocumentation is approved by, or determined to be acceptable byCenterPointEnergy.

3.2.3 IfitisdeterminedthatanydevicedoesnotoperatewithintheuncontrolledMPE,suchdevicewillbesubjecttotherequirementsofSection6.3.

3.3 Requests for Wireless Attachments must be submitted to CenterPoint

Energy in accordance with the application process set forth inCenterPoint Energy’s Guidelines at Section 6. Each individual WirelessAttachmentwill be subject to CenterPoint Energy’s internal review, andmay be denied for reason of insufficient capacity, or based on safety,reliability,orengineeringconsiderations.

3.4 Each individual Wireless Attachment must be subject to a pole loadinganalysis as part of the application process. Such analysis shall beprepared by an independent third party professional engineer (P.E.)retained through a CenterPoint Energy‐approved engineering firm, atAttacher’ssolecostandexpense.

3.5 CenterPoint Energywill not obtain or negotiate any property rights forthebenefitofAttacher,andmakesnoguarantyofthatsuchrightswillbegranted by the owner of property on which CenterPoint Energy’s Polesmay be located. Attacher shall in all cases be solely responsible forobtaining from the property owner any permissions or consentsrequired to attach to thePole, andmaintain communications equipmentinGroundFurnitureatthebaseofthePole(SeeSection14).


4.0 REQUIREMENTS FOR MAINTAINING WIRELESS ATTACHMENTS ON POLES.

4.1 All Wireless Attachments shall at all times strictly conform to therequirements of CenterPoint Energy’s Guidelines, DistributionStandards, and all safety and design requirements promulgated by theFederal Communications Commission (FCC), the United StatesOccupational Safety andHealthAdministration (OSHA), all agencies andmunicipalities of the State of Texas, the Public Utility Commission ofTexas (PUCT), and any other regulatory body having jurisdiction overtheworkofconstructingand installingWirelessAttachments,allasmaybe changed from time to time. All work shall also be performed inaccordance with the applicable standards of the National ElectricalSafetyCode (NESC)and theNationalElectricalCode (NEC), includingallamendments thereto adopted at any time, by any jurisdiction in whichsuch work occurs. Attacher shall be solely responsible for monitoringand implementing updates ormodifications to applicable law, includingCenterPoint Energy’s Guidelines, Distribution Standards, and any otherstandards adopted by CenterPoint Energy affecting WirelessAttachments. Attachershall takeallnecessaryprecautions,throughtheinstallation of protective equipment or other means, to protect allpersonsandpropertyof all kindsagainst injuryordamagecausedbyoroccurring by reason of the construction, installation, or existence ofWireless Attachments. Attacher shall follow best practices in operating,maintaining, and inspecting its Attachments, and shall make all regularand special inspections as necessary to ensure compliancewith Section4.1.

5.0 REQUESTSFOR MODIFICATION OF WIRELESSATTACHMENTS.

5.1 Allmodifications toWirelessAttachmentswillbesubject toCenterPointEnergy’spriorapproval.Suchmodificationsinclude,butarenotlimitedto:

(a) Frequency(b) Power(c) Gain(d) EquipmentType(e) Location(f) ExposureData


6.0 REQUIREMENTS FOR RF‐EMITTING WIRELESS ATTACHMENTS.

6.1 The general publicmay not be exposed to levels of RF emissions whichexceed the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) limits for theuncontrolledpopulation,asestablishedby47C.F.R.§1.1310.

6.2 If an RF‐emitting device is demonstrated to operate within theuncontrolledMPE,noadditionalRFmitigationwillberequired.

6.3 If an RF‐emitting device does not operatewithin the uncontrolledMPE,thefollowingwillberequired:

6.3.1 Attacher must train (or ensure the training of) all of itsemployees, contractors,andsub‐contractorswhowillworkon,orproximatetoWirelessAttachments.

6.3.2 Attacher shall be responsible for installing and maintaining RFsafetysignage,inaccordancewiththefollowing:

6.3.2.1 Signs shall be in accordance with IEEE Std C95.2‐1999 [B19] and ANSI Z535‐1998 [B4], and placed inaccordancewithIEEEStdC95.7‐2014.

6.3.2.2 Attacher must affix two (2) signs on each on Polethat containsaWirelessAttachment. Eachsuchsignshall be flush‐mounted to thePole, as to ensure thatit does not impair CenterPoint Energy’s employeesand contractors from ascending or descending anyPole,orfromaccessinganyPoletop.

6.3.2.2.1 A Notice/Information sign shall be placed atleast two (2) times the Safe ApproachDistance below the Wireless Attachment, andshall include information sufficient to warnthe general public that an RF‐emitting deviceisonthePole.

6.3.2.2.2 AnRF Safety sign shall be placed at a verticaldistance below the Wireless Attachment thatis equal to the Safe Approach Distance, andshall indicate the RF hazard and the SafeApproachDistance.

6.3.2.2.3 Each sign shall clearly indicate Attacher’sname, and a telephone number where arepresentative of Attacher can be reached,


twenty‐four(24)hoursaday,seven(7)daysaweek to respond to questions, or to anyreports of problems with the WirelessAttachment.

6.3.3 Attacher must install and maintain operational a disconnectswitch, on site, that enables CenterPoint Energy to power downthe Wireless Attachment without the need for Attacher’sintervention.

6.3.3.1 Such disconnect switch must be maintained inGroundFurniture.

6.3.3.2 Inallcases,Attacherwillberequiredtore‐poweritsownWirelessAttachment.

6.4 Any device thatmeets or exceeds the controlled RF limits at a distancemeasured one (1) foot from the point of emission shall be installedabove theSupplySpace, at thePoleTop. The followingwill be requiredforPoleTopWirelessAttachments.

6.4.1 Training,inaccordancewithSection6.3.1above.

6.4.2 RFsafetysignage,inaccordancewithSection6.3.2above.

6.4.3 Disconnectswitch,inaccordancewithSection6.3.3above.

6.4.4 The minimum vertical distance between any Pole Top WirelessAttachment and the highest conductor on the Pole shall be theSafeApproachDistanceneededtobeattheuncontrolledlimits,orfive(5)feet,asrequiredpursuanttoSection2.8above.

7.0 RESPONSE TO HAZARDOUS ORUNSAFE CONDITIONS.

7.1 In the event CenterPoint Energy determines, in its sole judgment, thatany Wireless Attachment(s), or the condition of any WirelessAttachment(s): (i) interfereswith CenterPoint Energy’s use of any Pole,or the operation of any of CenterPoint Energy’s facilities or equipment;(ii) constitutes a hazard to the service rendered by CenterPoint Energyor by any third parties authorized by CenterPoint Energy to use itsPole(s); or (iii) causes any danger to CenterPoint Energy’s employees,contractors, or subcontractors of any tier, or employees, contractors, orsubcontractorsofanytierofanythirdpartiesauthorizedbyCenterPointEnergy to use its Pole(s), or to the public, Attacher or Attacher’s


designee shall be present at the affected Pole location and available tobeginwork to remediate thesituationwithin four (4)hoursofreceivingCenterPointEnergy’swrittenororalofthesame,andshallexpeditiouslyfinishsuchwork.

7.2 In the event that that any hazardous or unsafe condition described inSection 7.1 requires CenterPoint Energy, in its sole discretion, toimmediately remove, relocate, or disable any Wireless Attachment,CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to take any such remedial actionwithoutpriornoticetoAttacher,andwithoutliabilitytoAttacher.


SECTION12.RemovalNotificationandAbandonmentAttachment

AttachmentRemovalNotificationAttacher must provide CenterPoint Energy written notice of each licensed AttachmentremovedfromCenterPointEnergy’spole.Absentsuchnotice,eachAttachmentwillremainsubject to the terms and conditions of the Pole Attachment Agreement. Upon receivingwritten notice from the Attacher that the attachments have been removed, CenterPointEnergy reserves the right to inspect the designated attachments to verify removal. Uponverificationofremoval,CenterPointEnergyshallreissuetheapplicableSiteLicensefortheremainingauthorizedattachments.IntheeventtheinspectionfindsthatattachmentshavenotbeenremovedfromCenterPointEnergypolesinthefield,eachAttachmentshallremainsubjecttothetermsandconditionsofthePoleAttachmentAgreementandtheAttacherwillbeassessedthefeesassociatedwiththeinspection.

AttachmentRemovalNotificationProcess Upon completion of removal of the licensed attachments, submit confirmation of

[email protected]

IncludeintheconfirmationnoticeacopyoftheSiteLicensedesignatingthelicensed

attachmentsthathavebeenremoved.

AbandonedAttachmentAttacher shall bear all costs of removal and any CenterPoint Energy costs incurred as aresult of such removal, and shall continue to pay all attachment fees due to CenterPointEnergyundertheapplicablesectionoftheAttacher’sPoleAttachmentAgreementuptoanduntilthedateonwhichsuchattachment(s)havebeenremovedfromtheabandonedPole.

CENTERPOINTENERGYSHALLMAKENOREFUNDOFANYAMOUNTPAIDBYATTACHER

FOR USE OF SUCH POLE, NOR SHALL ANY OTHER OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY OF

ATTACHERUNDERTHISAGREEMENTBEAFFECTEDBYSUCHABANDONMENT.


SECTION13.PoleTransfer

CenterPoint Energy at times will send Attachers notifications of Pole Transferrequests. Pole Transfers occur when CenterPoint Energy’s core business requiresmaintenance, renovation, or relocation of CenterPoint Energy’s facilities, and Attachers’facilitieswill be affected. CenterPoint Energy requiresAttachers to respond and transfertheirfacilitieswithin45daysfromthedatenoticeisprovided.

Failure to complete the PoleTransfer of theCommunicationAttachmentswithin 45dayswill result in CenterPoint Energy relocating and/or removing Attachers’ facilities atAttachers’solecostandexpense.


SECTION14.PropertyRights

Non‐CenterPointEnergy facilitiescannotbe installedonCenterPointEnergy’spropertyorwithin CenterPoint Energy’s rights‐of‐waywithout priorwritten approval of CenterPointEnergy’sSurveying&Right‐Of‐WayDepartment(1‐713‐207‐5769).

In all situations, prior permission must be obtained from property owners andgovernmental entities for use of private property and public roads. CenterPoint Energyassumesnoresponsibilityforsecuringanypermissionthatmayberequired,andattachingcompaniesshouldnotassumethatsuchpermissionexistsbasedsolelyonthepresenceofCenterPointEnergy’sfacilities.

CenterPoint Energywill not obtain or negotiate rights‐of‐way for the benefit of Attacher,and no guaranty is given by CenterPoint Energy of permission, from property owners,municipalities or others ("Right‐of‐Way Owners"). Attacher shall in all cases be solelyresponsible for obtaining consent, where necessary, from landowners and governmentalentitiesinvolved.

Attachers must obtain all required permits and approvals from any municipality,homeownersassociation,orotherpublicorprivatepropertyowner. Attacherwillresolveproperty owner complaints over the location of a Cable Attachment, TelecommunicationAttachment, or Wireless Attachment on a Pole. In the event where resolutions are notreached with Right‐of‐Way Owners, such attachments may be removed or relocated atAttacher’sexpense.

Attachers are at all times responsible for obtaining property rights or easements fromRight‐of‐Way Owners for use of private property and public roads. CenterPoint Energy’sapprovalof aTCPApplicationorgrantingof aSiteLicense innowayconveysapropertyinterest in the underlying property. CenterPoint Energy assumes no responsibility forsecuring any permission that may be required, and Attachers should assume no suchpermissionexistsforthembasedsolelyonthepresenceofCenterPointEnergy’sfacilities.


SECTION15.ForeignPoles

ManyofthePolestowhichCenterPointEnergy’selectricallinesareattachedarenotownedbyCenterPointEnergy.CenterPointEnergycannotgivepermissiontoattachtothesePoles.Attacherisresponsibleforobtainingallrequiredpermissionsfromtheownerstoinstallonthese non‐CenterPoint Energy Poles. CenterPoint Energy will identify Pole ownershipduringtheSiteLicenseApplicationProcess;ownershipcannotbedeterminedinthefield.

CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to inspect any communication attachments inrelationtoitsinstallationsandequipmentonForeignPoles,if,suchinspectionispermittedbythethird‐partyPoleowner.

SeeSection8forInspection.


SECTION16.CommunicationAttachmentsinTransmissionROW

Third‐partycommunicationattachmentsareonlyallowedintheTransmissionROWwherethereisexistingDistributionSystemunderbuilt.Anyproposedthird‐partycommunicationattachments requested on CenterPoint Energy’s Transmission poles,withoutDistributionSystem underbuilt are outside of the scope of Section 224, and must be subject to aseparatelynegotiatedcommercialagreement.

For Transmission poles with Distribution underbuilt, where there are no previousattachmentsonthepole,thefirstattachmentshallalwaysbeplacedatthelowestpositionthatcomplieswiththegreaterclearancerequirementsspecifiedbytheNESC,CenterPointEnergy, or State and/or County regulations. In such cases, subsequent communicationattachmentshallbemadeatthepreviousattachmentsandbeaslowaspossibletomaintainrequiredclearancesfromsupplyandcommunicationfacilities.

AttachmentstoCenterPointEnergy’sTransmissionpoleswithdistributionunderbuiltmustbebandedwithstainlesssteelband.


SECTION17.CommunicationAttachmentsonDistributionPolewithStreetlight

CenterPointEnergywillconsiderattachmenttoDistributionPoleswithstreetlightsonthemsubject to the same criteria that would be applied for requests to attach to otherDistributionPoles,pursuanttoSection6.Allattachmentsrequestsaresubjecttoreviewforsafety,reliability,engineeringpractice,andcapacityconcerns.

Anyproposed third‐partycommunicationattachmentsrequestedonCenterPointEnergy’smetalstreetlightPolesarenotpermittedastheseareoutsideofthescopeofSection224.


SECTION18.GeneralConstructionandSafetyConsiderations

CenterPoint Energy's Service Standards can be found online at this link:http://www.centerpointenergy.com/en‐us/Documents/Service‐Standards.pdf. Thesespecificationsareintendedtoprovideusefulreferencesforattachingcompaniesduringthedesign and construction phases and ongoing maintenance of their communication plantattachedtoCenterPointEnergy’sPoles.

As stated in the Introduction of these Guidelines, the information provided herein isintended to be used in conjunction with the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), anddoesnot inanywaysupersedeorreplacetheNESC.TheNESCshouldalwaysbefollowedwhenmakingclearancedeterminationswithregardtocommunicationcableinstallations.

In all situations, it is the continuing responsibility of attaching companies to be familiarwith, and adhere to, the NESC during the installation,maintenance and related activitiesinvolvingtheirfacilitiesattachedtoCenterPointEnergy’sPoles.


SECTION19.IdentificationGuidelinesforCommunicationsCables

While there are numerous designations for identification hardware, for the sake ofsimplicity, such hardware is referred to in these Guidelines as "tags" and the process ofphysicalidentificationisreferredtoas"tagging."

To facilitate CenterPoint Energy's notification to attaching companies during routinemaintenance and in emergency situations, all communications cables on CenterPointEnergy’sPolesmustbeidentifiedwithtagsshowingatleastoneofthefollowingidentifiers:

1. Theattachingcompany'sgenerallyrecognizedbusinessname2. Anidentifyingcompanylogo3. Anemergencytelephonenumber4. Othermutuallyagreeduponidentifyingsymbol

EffectiveJanuary1,2012,attachingcompaniesmusttagallnewcableinstallationsateveryPole to ensure adequate identification. Cables existing as of January 1, 2012, should betagged during ongoing maintenance activities. Likewise, cable plant acquired duringpurchases of other attaching companies’ systems should be tagged during ongoingmaintenanceactivities.

Cables should be tagged at the time of installation. Attaching companies should maketagging an ongoing effort, and work toward complete tagging of all existing cables notpreviouslytagged.Identificationtagsshouldbesecuredsoastoremainpermanentlyaffixedtotheattachingcompany'scable,andmust:

Beresistanttofadingfromtheeffectsofweather,chemicals,etc.; Be generally consistent in appearance for a given attaching company

throughoutCenterPointEnergy’sservicearea.; Haveatypefacethatislegibletoanobserverfromgroundlevel;and Avoidtheuseofsharpedgesandcorners(ifconstructedofmetal)toprevent

injurytopersonnelanddamagetocables.

NOTE:ForAttachersproposingWirelessTelecommunicationsAttachmentstoCenterPointEnergy’sPoles,alloftheforegoingtaggingrequirementsareapplicable.


SECTION20.PoleMaintenanceIdentifiers

CenterPoint Energy attempts to identify and mark Poles that should not be climbed.CenterPointEnergyPolesmaybetreatedwithchemicalwoodpreservatives.SeveraltypesofmetaltagsandflagsareusedtoidentifytheconditionofCenterPointEnergy’sPoles.Inallsituations,itistheresponsibilityofanypersonshavingvalidreasontoclimbCenterPointEnergy’s Poles in performance of their job to first satisfy themselves as to the structuralintegrityofPolespriortoclimbing.