Fresno, CA Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Cal. Public Utilities Code sec. 21669; 21 CCR sec. 5012
- State noise standard
- 65 dB community noise equivalent level (CNEL)
- Local airport
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), City-owned
- Touch-and-go curfew
- Large-aircraft touch-and-go prohibited 10 PM-7 AM (2200-0700)
- Federal program
- FAA-approved Part 150 Noise Compatibility Program; SMART sound-insulation (65-75 dB CNEL)
- City ordinance
- Does not apply (preempted; Noise Ordinance sec. 10-109(c))
Summary
Fresno cannot regulate in-flight aircraft noise (federally preempted), so the controlling standards are California's. Public Utilities Code section 21669 directs the state to adopt aircraft noise standards, and Title 21 CCR section 5012 sets the acceptable level at a 65-decibel community noise equivalent level (CNEL). At Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), large-aircraft touch-and-go activity is prohibited from 10 PM to 7 AM.
21669. The department shall adopt noise standards governing the operation of aircraft and aircraft engines for airports operating under a valid permit issued by the department to an extent not prohibited by federal law. The standards shall be based upon the level of noise acceptable to a reasonable person residing in the vicinity of the airport. [21 CCR sec. 5012:] The standard for the acceptable level of aircraft noise for persons living in the vicinity of airports is hereby established to be a community noise equivalent level of 65 decibels.
Full Breakdown
Aircraft and in-flight operational noise are preempted by federal law, so Fresno's Municipal Code does not - and cannot - set in-air noise limits; Noise Ordinance section 10-109(c) confirms the article does not apply to acts prohibited by state or federal law. The governing framework is the State Aeronautics Act and its regulations. ' Locally, Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) - which the City of Fresno owns and operates - implements an FAA-approved Noise Compatibility Program under 14 CFR Part 150, including prohibiting large-aircraft touch-and-go activity from 2200 to 0700, noise-abatement arrival/departure procedures, and a SMART residential sound-insulation program for homes in the 65-75 dB CNEL contours. Aircraft noise complaints are directed to the airport's noise program rather than handled under the City noise ordinance.
Violations & Fines
Aircraft noise is enforced through the State Aeronautics Act / Title 21 CCR variance process and the airport's FAA-approved Noise Compatibility Program, not by City infraction citation. The Caltrans Division of Aeronautics administers airport noise standards under Public Utilities Code section 21669.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the City of Fresno set its own aircraft noise limits?
Are there curfews at Fresno Yosemite International Airport?
Where do I complain about aircraft noise over Fresno?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno
California rules heatmap·Compare Fresno to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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