Aircraft Noise: Apex vs Cary

Does Apex, NC have an aircraft noise ordinance?

No. Aircraft-in-flight noise is regulated exclusively by the FAA, and the Apex Town Code's Chapter 14 (Offenses) does not contain any aircraft-noise provisions. Apex does not operate an airport. The nearest commercial facility is Raleigh-Durham International (RDU), about 15 miles north, operated by the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. Most of Apex is outside the published 65 dB DNL noise contour for RDU, though neighborhoods near U.S. 64 may experience occasional overflight noise depending on runway configuration.

Who do I call about aircraft noise over Apex?

File aircraft noise complaints directly with the RDU Airport Authority Noise Office via rdu.com/noise-inquires-and-complaints - the Authority runs the noise complaint office and the Aircraft Noise Abatement Committee (ANAC) program. Apex Police cannot cite aircraft for in-flight noise because the FAA holds exclusive jurisdiction over flight operations under the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990. The FAA Part 150 noise compatibility study process is the federal mechanism for broader mitigation review.

Can a North Carolina city ban low-flying aircraft over neighborhoods?

No. Aircraft flight operations are regulated by the FAA. Cities can only adopt compatible-use airport zoning under Chapter 63 to limit incompatible development near airports.

Where do I report disturbing aircraft noise in North Carolina?

Contact the airport operator first, then the FAA Regional Office. The NCDOT Division of Aviation handles state-level airport planning but does not enforce in-flight noise complaints.