Aircraft Noise: San Francisco vs San Jose
How do aircraft noise rules compare between San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA?
San Jose has fewer restrictions than San Francisco.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco County
California sets statewide airport noise limits under Title 21 CCR, with the state preempting most local aviation noise control because federal FAA authority dominates aircraft operations in flight.
View full San Francisco rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
Aircraft noise is regulated federally by the FAA, not by Santa Clara County. San Jose International (SJC) operates under an FAA Part 150 noise compatibility program with a voluntary curfew from 11:30 PM to 6:30 AM.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Francisco | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 65 dB CNEL boundary | - |
| Authority | Caltrans Aeronautics | - |
| Code | Title 21 CCR §5000+ | - |
| Federal overlay | FAA preemption | - |
| Primary Authority | - | FAA (federal preemption) |
| SJC Curfew | - | 11:30 PM to 6:30 AM (voluntary) |
| Local Regulation | - | Not permitted for overflights |
| Complaint Line | - | SJC Noise Office hotline |
| Part 150 Study | - | FAA noise compatibility program |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Francisco FAQ
Can my city ban loud planes overhead?
No. Federal law preempts municipal regulation of aircraft in flight. California's state rules govern airport-side noise contours, but cities cannot impose flight path or altitude restrictions.
Who do I complain to about aircraft noise?
Contact the airport proprietor's noise office first, then Caltrans Division of Aeronautics for state-level concerns and the FAA for in-flight or air traffic control issues.
San Jose FAQ
Can the county stop planes from flying over my house?
No. Federal law preempts local regulation of aircraft in flight. You can file complaints with SJC to influence voluntary noise abatement procedures.
How do I complain about airport noise?
Contact the SJC Airport Noise Office. Persistent issues can be raised through the Airport Noise Advisory Committee.
Compare other topics
See how San Francisco and San Jose compare on other ordinance categories.
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