The exemplary embodiments include at least a method and apparatus sending by a second network operator a request to use sub-frames muted by macro cells of a first network operator for use by at least one small cell of the second network operator; receiving information for the use of the muted sub-frames; synchronizing a use of the muted sub-frames; and sending an indication of the synchronized use. In addition, a method and apparatus receiving by a first network operator a request to use sub-frames muted by macro cells of the first network operator for use by at least one small cell of a second network operator; sending information for the use of the muted sub-frames; and receiving an indication of the synchronized use of the muted sub-frames.