Telecommunications infrastructure includes the physical systems enabling communications: cell towers, fibre optic networks, small cells, antennas, data centres, and transmission facilities. Federal jurisdiction over telecommunications limits municipal authority, though municipalities increasingly seek influence over infrastructure deployment affecting their communities. Issues include cell tower location and aesthetics, 5G small cell deployment on municipal poles and rights-of-way, broadband access (particularly in underserved areas), and data centre development. Municipalities negotiate access agreements when telecommunications companies use municipal infrastructure. Some municipalities have invested in broadband networks to address connectivity gaps. The rapid expansion of telecommunications infrastructure, particularly for 5G and rural broadband, creates ongoing negotiations between federal regulatory authority and municipal interests in infrastructure placement and community connectivity.