El Cajon experiences significant aircraft noise from Gillespie Field (SEE), a public airport within city limits. The airport operates under FAA jurisdiction and the city cannot restrict flight operations. The Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan establishes noise contours and development restrictions.
Gillespie Field (SEE) is a public-use airport located within El Cajon city limits, operated by the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. The airport serves general aviation and generates aircraft noise affecting surrounding neighborhoods, particularly areas north and south of the runways along the approach and departure paths. The Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ALUCP) establishes noise contours (60-75 dB CNEL) and restricts certain development within noise-affected zones. New residential development within the 60 dB CNEL contour may require noise mitigation such as sound insulation. The city cannot restrict airport operations as they are under federal FAA jurisdiction. Residents with noise complaints can file them with the Airport Authority's noise monitoring program. The airport has voluntary noise abatement procedures encouraging pilots to minimize noise over residential areas.
The city cannot enforce noise limits against aircraft operations due to federal preemption. Development that does not meet ALUCP noise mitigation requirements may be denied by the city planning department. Pilots who violate voluntary noise procedures may receive advisories from the Airport Authority.
El Cajon, CA
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El Cajon, CA
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El Cajon, CA
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El Cajon, CA
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El Cajon, CA
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El Cajon, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle aircraft noise.
See how El Cajon's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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