Aircraft Noise: Mesa vs Phoenix
How do aircraft noise rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Mesa has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa is home to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and near military flight paths. Aircraft noise is largely exempt from local noise ordinances under federal preemption, though the city participates in noise compatibility planning.
View full Mesa rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix addresses aircraft noise through the Airport Noise Impact Overlay (AIO) District under Zoning Ordinance Section 644. This overlay restricts new residential development in noise-impacted areas around Sky Harbor International Airport. Residents can file noise complaints through the Sky Harbor Airspace and Noise Section.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Airport | Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport | - |
| Federal Preemption | Yes, FAA regulated | - |
| Noise Program | Part 150 compatibility study | - |
| Complaint Line | Gateway Airport noise hotline | (602) 773-1093 |
| Zoning Overlay | - | Section 644 AIO District |
| Boundaries | - | Railroad (N), University Dr (S), 7th St (W), 24th St (E) |
| Restriction | - | No off-site constructed dwellings in AIO |
| Monitoring | - | Casper flight tracking system |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
Can Mesa regulate aircraft noise?
No, aircraft noise is federally regulated by the FAA. Mesa cannot impose local restrictions on flight operations but participates in noise compatibility planning.
Where do I report aircraft noise in Mesa?
File complaints through the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport noise complaint system or contact the airport administration directly.
Phoenix FAQ
Can I build a new home near Sky Harbor?
New residential uses in the AIO District are restricted. The overlay applies to areas roughly bounded by the railroad, University Drive, 7th Street, and 24th Street. Properties with prior building permits are exempt.
How do I file an aircraft noise complaint?
Contact the Sky Harbor Airspace and Noise Section at (602) 773-1093 or use the online Casper flight tracking system to submit concerns. The city recommends notifying both the City and FAA.
Compare other topics
See how Mesa and Phoenix compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool