is it legal for a jurisdiction to restrict cable carriers (TV, net)?

[mrbigstuff]

Robert M, that is exactly my situation (although a different provider). I'll let you know what I find out, at least in terms of the applicable statutes governing this in MA.

[Robert M]

C(-)ris,

In that sense, yes, but since getting satellite TV is not an option since I live in an apartment and it is unlikely the building will allow me to install a satellite receiver, cable TV or over the air are the only reasonable choices available to me. Since that's the case, I'd like to have the option of using Verizon, Timewarner or any of the other cable TV providers for TV service. To me, not allowing these other cable providers into my area is wrong. The choice should be left up to me as to who becomes my provider of choice for cable TV. Right now, that decision is out of my control.

Robert

[ADent]

That is what you get for renting. The owner of the building controls which providers can tear up his property.

They can not prohibit your from installing a satellite dish - but you need to see to the South to get satellite and know how to do it w/o damage. Much easier if you have a patio or porch, but I have heard of installations with the dish inside the unit looking out the window.

[Robert M]

Adent,

I own my unit. The governing board can absolutely prohibit you from getting a satellite dish as it physically attaches to the building itself. Where did you get the idea that you can do something like that regardless of how the owner or in my case the governing board of a building feels about it? It's a different matter entirely if it's in the apartment itself.

Robert