Aircraft Noise: Buffalo vs Clarence
How do aircraft noise rules compare between Buffalo, NY and Clarence, NY?
Buffalo and Clarence have similar restriction levels.
Buffalo, NY
Erie County
Aircraft noise from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is regulated by the FAA, not the City of Buffalo. BUF operates a voluntary nighttime noise-abatement program and does not have a curfew. Residents in the Cheektowaga approach corridor are most affected.
View full Buffalo rules →Clarence, NY
Erie County
Aircraft noise regulation in New York is preempted by federal law under the Federal Aviation Act, with state and local authorities barred from regulating in-flight aircraft operations, though New York retains limited proprietor and land-use authority.
View full Clarence rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Buffalo | Clarence |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Authority | FAA preemption | - |
| Airport Operator | NFTA | - |
| Nighttime Program | Voluntary 11 PM - 7 AM | - |
| Curfew | None | - |
| Helicopter Minimum | 1,000 ft over city | - |
| Federal Preemption | - | 49 U.S.C. 41713 |
| State Role | - | Airport proprietor only |
| NY Authority | - | Transportation Law |
| Local Curfews | - | Generally preempted |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Buffalo FAQ
Can Buffalo impose a curfew on BUF airport?
No. Federal law preempts local noise curfews on federally-funded airports.
Where do I file aircraft noise complaints?
Contact the NFTA Aviation Noise Office or use the BUF airport online noise complaint form.
Clarence FAQ
Can a New York city impose an aircraft curfew?
Generally no. Only the airport proprietor may impose curfews, and even then must comply with the federal Airport Noise and Capacity Act. Non-proprietor municipal curfews are preempted.
Who do I complain to about aircraft noise in New York?
Contact the operating airport's noise office and file complaints with the FAA. The NY State Department of Transportation handles state airport coordination but cannot regulate flight operations.
Can New York regulate where airports are built?
Yes. State and local land-use authority over airport siting and surrounding land compatibility is preserved, though regulating actual flight operations remains federally preempted.
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