Joint Use Attachment
What Is a Joint Use Attachment?
A joint use attachment is equipment installed by a third party, such as a communications, broadband, or wireless provider on shared utility infrastructure, most commonly utility poles. Typical attachments include fiber and coaxial cables for CATV, wireless facilities, and associated hardware required to deliver essential services to communities.
Successful joint use management requires close coordination between the asset owner and attaching entities to ensure each attachment meets engineering, safety, and regulatory requirements. This coordination includes attachment permitting, make-ready analysis, construction sequencing, and ongoing compliance throughout the asset lifecycle.
Clear visibility into ownership, attachment status, and responsibilities is critical to minimizing risk. Standardizing processes and improving collaboration supports safer infrastructure and better outcomes for utilities, service providers, and the public they serve.
FAQ
Joint use attachments include electric distribution equipment, communications and broadband cables, wireless facilities, and supporting hardware installed on shared utility poles. Examples include power lines, transformers, fiber-optic and coaxial cables, and streetlights, provided they meet safety, clearance, and other asset-owned defined requirements.
A joint use attachment agreement defines the responsibilities, requirements, and obligations of all parties sharing utility infrastructure.
An agreement, or contract, typically addresses costs and fees, authorization and permitting processes, regulatory and safety compliance, and the terms governing how asset owners and attachers coordinate work on shared assets.
Yes. Joint use attachments must meet engineering, safety, regulatory, and asset owner requirements. Compliance ensures proper clearances, safe installation, accurate field records, and adherence to federal, state, and utility‑specific rules. These standards protect workers, the general public, and the long‑term reliability of shared utility infrastructure.
