Open System?

[NWHov]

Should one ask for permission to use a repeater even if it is posted as "open system"?  In passing by, I can see just using it for a short moment without permission, but if it is one I would use more frequent???  

[SteveShannon]

Just now, WSJH434 said:

Should one ask for permission to use a repeater even if it is posted as "open system"?  In passing by, I can see just using it for a short moment without permission, but if it is one I would use more frequent???  

They either mean what they say when they label it open or it’s not really open.  I would use it without seeking permission but if you get a chance contact the owner to say thanks.

[nokones]

If it is listed as an Open Repeater, it is an open repeater and permission is not required. 

I wouldn't worry about it, just use it. Most repeater owners don't monitor  their own repeater anyways unless it is the only repeater in that particular coverage area.

[MDYoungblood]

It is polite to ask to use someone's repeater, I have several in my area I rarely hear anyone using but I have called for the owner when first using them, with permission then use it freely.

3's

Greg

[WRTC928]

Listing a repeater as "open" is typically taken to mean no permission is required. However, politeness is never out of style, and there's no harm in contacting the owner to say thanks. 

[WRUE951]

My repeater is open to anyone that wants to use it, following rules of course..  And i do reserve the right to shut it down on the ocasional 'jack wad'..  Dosen't happen offten but it does and usually due to one 74 year old looser named Ron Antonson  

[GreggInFL]

On 7/26/2025 at 3:24 PM, WRTC928 said:

Listing a repeater as "open" is typically taken to mean no permission is required. However, politeness is never out of style, and there's no harm in contacting the owner to say thanks. 

Same here. I ask permission and offer thanks with a note that I will assume "open" means just that and requires no response from the owner.

Long pause...

...due to traffic on Daytona 650, which is permission only. Turns out it was the owner asking for a radio check. We chatted for a while and he said the repeater had been unlisted for a couple years and recently made available via MyGMRS with permission only. Nice guy.

This is a great example of asking permission, promising to follow the rules and getting to use someone else's gear. DAB650 has very little traffic. If the SHTF I'll move from wide open Orlando 700 to this little guy because 700 will get swamped.

[WRYZ926]

I agree that it is courteous to ask for permission to use open repeaters. But it's definitely not required. As the custodian of our GMRS repeater that is open, I always try to approve requests to use our repeater when I receive them. If they are courteous enough to ask then I will be courteous enough to grant permission quickly.