Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) aircraft noise is regulated exclusively by the FAA under federal law, preempting local decibel ordinances. The City of Austin Department of Aviation runs a voluntary noise abatement program and publishes a noise complaint portal for residents under flight paths.
Federal Aviation Administration jurisdiction under 49 USC § 40103 preempts municipal control of aircraft in flight, so Austin City Code Chapter 9-2 noise limits do not apply to aircraft operations at AUS. The Department of Aviation operates the AUS Noise Abatement Office, which tracks complaints and coordinates with FAA Air Traffic Control on voluntary procedures such as the Noise Abatement Departure Profile (NADP) and preferential runway use (Runway 18L/36R vs 18R/36L) when winds allow. AUS is located southeast of downtown, and neighborhoods under the approach paths (Del Valle, Onion Creek, McKinney Falls) receive the most overflight noise. Residents can file noise reports through the AUS online portal or by phone at 512-530-6600. The airport publishes a 65 DNL (Day-Night Average Sound Level) noise contour; properties within that contour may be eligible for sound insulation under federal Part 150 programs. Helicopter operations from Austin Executive Airport (KEDC) in Pflugerville and medical helicopters are similarly governed by FAA rules. Drone operations under 400 feet in Austin are also FAA-regulated but must additionally comply with Austin Parks drone restrictions.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Austin code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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