Methods and systems are provided for mitigating interference by low-cost Internet-base-station (LCIB) pilot beacons with macro-network communications. In an embodiment, an LCIB transmits a pilot beacon having a power level that is adjustable on a per-carrier basis. The LCIB determines that it does not have any registered mobile stations, and responsively turns the power level down or off while monitoring reverse-noise rise (RNR) on one or more carriers. The LCIB then detects a threshold RNR on a carrier, and responsively carries out a sub-process a first number of times on the carrier. The sub-process comprises (a) gradually increasing the power level while continuing to monitor RNR, (b) detecting a sudden RNR decrease, and responsively turning the power level down or off while continuing to monitor RNR, and then (c) detecting an RNR increase. The LCIB waits for the RNR to return to normal before increasing the power.