FCC and WLRH Compliance Guidelines

Rules for Public Service Annoucements

Pricing Information

PSAs may not mention prices, discounts, or any sales language. The following are prohibited:

"Free" (unless part of an event’s name)
"Purchase," "buy," "discount," "sale," or "fee"

You may say where tickets are available or that “the public is invited to attend.”

Value-Neutral Language

Avoid language that compares, embellishes, or qualifies your event, service, or organization. Allowed: “The XYZ Organization will present its annual spring concert.” Not allowed: “The XYZ Organization, one of the leading groups of its kind, will present its fantastic concert.”

Fundraiser Language

You may say:

Proceeds benefit XYZ Organization.

You may not say:

"Fundraiser," "auction," "telethon," etc.

Calls to Action (Not Allowed)

Avoid phrasing that instructs the listener to act.

Not Allowed	Allowed
“Bring lawn chairs and blankets.”	“Lawn chairs and blankets welcomed.”
“Come to tonight’s concert.”	“The concert is tonight.”
“Don’t forget to get your tickets.”	“Tickets available by pre-order only.”
“Call 555-1234.”	“Information at 555-1234.”

Tone

Keep your tone natural and in line with other WLRH programming. Even with compliant content, a commercial-style delivery is discouraged.

PSA Closing Format

All PSAs must end with: “Information at...” Do not add extra language such as “for more information,” “visit,” or “you can find out more.”

Acceptable: “Information at 555-1234 or info.org.”
Not Acceptable: “For more information on this great event, call 555-1234 or visit info.org.”

Examples of Non-Compliant Words and Phrases

Avoid the following (this is not a complete list):

best, finest, number one
discount, price, free (outside of names)
call us, visit us, come and…
buy, purchase, get your…
fundraiser, auction, silent auction
sale, thrift sale, raffle, yard sale
bring, hurry, don't miss
your money, specially priced, low cost
most beautiful, fantastic, amazing, better than...

If you have questions about whether a word or phrase complies with FCC or WLRH guidelines, please contact us before submitting your PSA.