Aircraft Noise: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do aircraft noise rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Tempe has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
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 →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Aircraft noise is federally preempted. Tempe is directly under Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) flight paths. No local aircraft noise ordinance.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Complaint Line | (602) 773-1093 | - |
| Monitoring | Casper flight tracking system | - |
| Federal Preemption | - | FAA controls airspace/aircraft noise |
| PHX Airport | - | Phoenix Sky Harbor is adjacent to Tempe — heavy flight path |
| Local Authority | - | None over aircraft noise |
| Contact | - | PHX Sky Harbor Noise Office for complaints |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Tempe FAQ
Does Sky Harbor airport noise affect Tempe?
Significantly. Sky Harbor directly borders western Tempe. Neighborhoods within the 65 DNL contour experience heavy aircraft noise from departures and arrivals.
How do I file an aircraft noise complaint?
File complaints through the Phoenix Aviation Department flight tracker at flighttracker.casper.aero/phx or call the noise hotline.
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