Durham County, NC Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Full-scale aircraft
- Exempt from city code
- Regulated by
- FAA (federal preemption)
- Model aircraft
- NOT exempt
- Model-craft cap
- 60 dB day / 50 dB night
- Authority
- Durham Code Sec. 26-23(e)(4)
Summary
Durham's noise ordinance expressly exempts sounds from the normal operation of properly equipped aircraft, and aircraft noise is federally regulated by the FAA. Model aircraft, however, are specifically excluded from that exemption and remain subject to the city noise limits.
Sounds emanating from the normal operations of properly equipped aircraft (not including model aircraft);
Full Breakdown
Sec. 26-23(e)(4) lists among exempt sounds those 'emanating from the normal operations of properly equipped aircraft (not including model aircraft).' Full-scale aircraft and airport operations near Raleigh-Durham International are governed by federal law (FAA), which preempts local noise regulation of aircraft in flight. Because model aircraft (including drones/RC craft) are carved out of the exemption, their noise is treated like any other source and must stay within the 60 dB(A) daytime / 50 dB(A) nighttime property-line limits and the general 'unreasonably loud and disturbing' standard.
Violations & Fines
Aircraft noise itself is not locally enforceable; but model-aircraft noise exceeding the limits is a Class 3 misdemeanor (up to $50, Sec. 1-9) under the general noise standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Durham regulate airplane noise?
Are drones or RC planes covered?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Durham County
Compare Durham County to another location·View the North Carolina noise ordinances overview
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