[Tigerbangs]

Many people have never lived with the need for a roof-mounted TV antenna, and they may object to the aesthetics of a TV antenna installed on the exterior of their homes.

We are at least one generation removed from the time when almost every home had a TV antenna on it, so many people who are looking to rid themselves of cable TV or satellite service do not understand the need for a roof-mounted antenna for satisfactory over-the-air reception. In the last generation, when cable TV and and satellite service became the predominate means of TV reception, many homeowners's associations have attempted to limit the installation of outdoor antennas due to aesthetic considerations.

In 1995, the FCC instituted rules that severely limit homeowner's associations and other third-party regulatory agencies from prohibiting the installation of exterior antennas for local TV or radio reception. These regulations were instituted by the FCC to permit homeowners for have a free over-the- air option to subscription television services. Prior to the FCC regulations, many homeowners were otherwise obligated to maintain TV subscription services in order to see any television at all because of HOA or deed restrictions prohibiting installation of over-the-air external TV antennas.

Of course, it is up to the individual homeowners as to whether or not to install an external TV antenna on their homes, however, many people still falsely believe that they are not legally permitted to install such external antennas. I believe that the OP's frustration comes from the large number of people who are either not aware of their right to install an antenna on their roof, or who attempt to find less objectionable attic-based or other indoor antenna installations.

it is true that attic-mounted or TV set-mounted antennas rarely perform as a roof-mounted TV antenna. The OP's (and my) frustration comes from recommending a properly designed TV antenna system that will provide reliable TV reception to the poster, only to be told that they are not allowed to mount an external antenna ion their homes.

If the homeowner's concern is aesthetic, and doesn't WANT an antenna on their home, then that's OK, although that may find that they are less-than-satisfied with the final result, but the homeowner-poster needs to be honest about their expectations and motives: an external antenna is ALWAYS preferable, and is ultimately more reliable, but if your aesthetic considerations are more important to you than your TV reception, expect that you will be less satisfied with your results if you choose to ignore the best advice and pursue your own path about attic or indoor antennas.