Apparatuses and methods for special subframe configuration in unlicensed spectrum are disclosed. For example, the disclosure presents an example method including identifying a time period for an extended clear channel assessment (ECCA) operation. Further, the example method may include determining a guard period portion included in a special subframe of a frame structure based on the identified time period. An apparatus may include means for identifying a time period for an extended clear channel assessment (ECCA) operation. Further, the example apparatus may include means for determining a guard period portion included in a special subframe of a frame structure based on the identified time period.