Legal & Regulatory

Do I need a radio license?

No—at least not for normal operation on the 868-MHz band. In Europe, this frequency band falls under what is known as the “general allocation” and may be used without an amateur radio license, provided certain requirements are met. These include:

• Maximum transmit power (EIRP): 25 mW (14 dBm) or 500 mW (27 dBm), depending on the sub-band. The default setting of 22 dBm falls within these limits.
• Duty cycle: The maximum permitted transmission time per unit of time. In the sub-band relevant to MeshCore, the limit is 1% or 10%. During normal operation, MeshCore typically operates well below 1%.

In short: Anyone operating a commercially available LoRa device with default settings and not using amplifiers or high-power antennas does not need a license. For high-power devices with an external PA (e.g., 30 dBm / 1 W), you must keep an eye on the EIRP limits—especially if you’re using a high-gain antenna.

Is MeshCore legal?

Yes. MeshCore uses the ISM bands (868 MHz) available in Europe without a license. As long as regulatory requirements (transmit power, duty cycle) are met, operation is legal and permitted. The Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) regulates frequency use in Germany.

Can anyone operate a repeater?

Yes. A repeater is technically a standard LoRa device and is subject to the same rules as a Companion. As long as it transmits in the 868 MHz band using the permitted parameters, no permit is required. When mounting it on a building or mast, you should, of course, coordinate with the owner.