Fairfax County Communications Ordinance (2020): County Code Chapter 9.2
This section of the Fairfax County Code addresses cable franchises and cable service. Chapter 9.2 (Cable Television) is the section of the Fairfax County Code that addresses cable television and related communications services. Chapter 9.2 includes the terms and conditions for constructing and operating a cable television system in Fairfax County and the county's authority to administer and oversee the fulfillment of the franchise requirements. It was revised, effective January 1, 2020, to respond to changes in federal and state law and to improve customer service standards enforcement.
Cox Communications Franchise Agreement
On May 14, 2013, the Board of Supervisors held a public hearing and adopted an ordinance granting a new non-exclusive franchise to CoxCom LLC, d/b/a/ Cox communications Northern Virginia (“Cox”) to provide cable service to households and businesses in Fairfax County other than the Reston Franchise Area. The new Franchise Agreement is effective June 9, 2013, for a term of ten years. Cox acquired its cable system in Fairfax County from Media General Cable, Inc., in 1999, with a 15-year prior franchise term ending on June 9, 2013.
Comcast Cable Franchise Agreement
In May 2005, the County Board of Supervisors held a public hearing and adopted an ordinance granting a non-exclusive cable television franchise to Comcast for the Reston area of Fairfax County. Comcast agreed to provide cable television to Reston area residents and businesses, as well as to schools, libraries, and other public organizations. Comcast completed a full upgrade of its cable system in 1999. Comcast’s cable service is available to all Reston area households and without line extension charges to at least 85% of those households.
Verizon Cable Franchise Agreement
On September 26, 2005, the Board of Supervisors held a hearing and adopted an ordinance granting a non-exclusive cable franchise to Verizon Virginia Incorporated for a term of 15 years, starting on October 1, 2005, to provide cable service to households and businesses in Fairfax County.