North American Regulations on 433MHz Radio

I have a similiar device, and just wanted to clarify something:

For a low power 433MHz transmitter, those would fall under under the provisions of FCC Part 15.231 for periodic transmission (which permits operations at 433MHz).

The RFID container thing in FCC Part 15.240, that's for more of a continuous transmit scenario (at I believe higher transmit limits).

Operating conditions are quite different under those two rule parts.

It is confusing and when you look at FCC Part 15.240, you might think you cannot use 433MHz for your typical low power transmitter, but that is not the case.

You can do a search on the FCC grantee database, and see TONS of transmitters at 433MHz.

You just can't run a high power, continuously transmitting device using 433MHz.

Your 433MHz transmitter has to fall under the rules for Part 15.231.

The 433MHz band is not a general-purpose band in North America. This is regulated by FCC Part 15 (USA):

§ 15.240 Operation in the band 433.5– 434.5 MHz.
< (a) Operation under the provisions of this section is restricted to devices that use radio frequency energy to identify the contents of commercial shipping containers. Operations must be limited to commercial and industrial areas such as ports, rail terminals and warehouses.

So it is a reserved band for goods/container identification. Unless this is what your radio is doing, you cannot use this band without a license (as is the case of radio amateurs also using the band).

868MHz is not a license-free band at all. If you were to use 433MHz for other purposes than the above, or 868MHz, you will have to apply for a license with FCC, which is then most likely restricted to a certain geographic area. For license-free use, you should aim either for the 902-928MHz band or 2.4GHz.

We don't expect to apply for certifications for it.

You still need a FCC approval for all manner of radio products, license-free or not.

Canada has very similar regulations but you need a separate approval.