SF can keep views pretty by banning wireless antennas, court says

San Francisco can prevent telecommunications companies from installing wireless antennas on utility poles that are so unsightly they would “diminish the city’s beauty,” a state appeals court says. A city ordinance regulating where antennas can be installed was challenged by wireless providers led by T-Mobile West, which said it conflicted with a state law allowing telecoms to install roadside equipment that does not “incommode the public use” of the roads. A January 2011 ordinance included statements by the Board of Supervisors that “San Francisco is widely recognized to be one of the world’s most beautiful cities,” that the city’s beauty attracts tourists and businesses, and that regulation would prevent installations whose appearance or location “will diminish the city’s beauty.” The ordinance does not apply to utilities like Pacific Gas and Electric Co. or video providers like Comcast. “This ordinance is working, creating an environment where wireless companies and the city have to work together to preserve the aesthetics of the city that we all value,” Bernstein said.