Which agency licenses a fire department to operate a radio system?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable in the United States. This includes the licensing of radio frequencies that fire departments use for their communication systems.

When a fire department operates a radio system, it must comply with FCC regulations to ensure that its operations do not interfere with other communications. The FCC issues licenses for different types of radio services, which are necessary for any organization that intends to use radio frequencies for official purposes, such as emergency services.

The other organizations listed have different roles: the National Fire Protection Association develops standards and codes for fire safety, the Federal Aviation Administration governs civil aviation and air traffic, and the National Association of State Fire Marshals focuses on fire prevention and safety regulations but does not handle radio communications licensing.