Cell towers are steel, industrial structures that often soar between 50 and 200 feet tall. They loom large over tree lines, pierce skylines, devastate scenic view sheds, and disrupt the natural or residential character of neighborhoods. Their antennas, cables, noisy backup generators, cooling fans, and accompanying electrical equipment make even “camouflaged” installations feel intrusive.

Studies have concluded that cell towers and other wireless telecommunications equipment can dramatically reduce property values.

Insights from the experts:

“You can see the buyer’s dismay over the sight of a cell tower near a home just by their expression, even if they don’t say anything.” - Tina Anaris, Associate Broker & Co-Owner of RE/MAX Hearthstone, Merrick, NY

“In 32 years as a Real Estate Appraiser specializing in detrimental conditions, takings, adverse impacts and right-of-way, I have found that aesthetics (or rather, adverse impact on aesthetics) of externalities routinely has the largest impact on property values. As a result, proximity to towers of all types…has an impact on property values.” - David E. Burgoyne, Certified General Real Estate Appraiser, Burgoyne Appraisal Company

Cell towers can collapse due to severe weather events, can catch fire due to electrical issues, and, in the colder climates, accumulate falling ice and snow.

Radiofrequency microwave radiation, more colloquially known as “wireless radiation,” is a scientifically-proven health risk.

While challenging a cell tower or other wireless telecommunications facility based on wireless radiation health concerns is federally preempted, there are specific situations in which the health argument is “fair game.” Contact us to learn more about when you can legally fight a tower on the basis of health and environmental concerns.

To review a linked list of key materials regarding the health and environmental effects of wireless radiation, see this webpage.