Boulder County, CO Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- County regulates aircraft?
- No
- Exemption
- Sec 1.01.060(G)
- Regulator
- FAA (federal law)
- Report flight noise to
- Airport operator / FAA
- Scope
- Federal preemption
Summary
Boulder County's noise ordinance does not regulate aircraft. Section 1.01.060(G) exempts "operation of aircraft or other activities which are subject to federal law with respect to noise control," leaving airplane and helicopter noise to the FAA.
The provisions of Sections 1.01.030, 1.01.040 and 1.01.050 of this ordinance shall not apply to: ... G. Operation of aircraft or other activities which are subject to federal law with respect to noise control.
Full Breakdown
Under Ordinance No. 92-28, Section 1.01.060(G), the county's noise limits do not apply to "Operation of aircraft or other activities which are subject to federal law with respect to noise control." Aircraft noise is preempted by federal law and regulated by the FAA, not by Boulder County. Concerns about flights near Boulder Municipal Airport, Erie Municipal Airport, or Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport should go to the airport operator or the FAA. The county cannot set decibel caps or curfews on aircraft. Drones (UAS) are likewise governed primarily by FAA rules, though local land-use and privacy rules may apply on the ground.
Violations & Fines
The county issues no aircraft-noise penalties. Complaints route to the FAA or the relevant airport authority under federal noise-control jurisdiction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Boulder County limit airplane or helicopter noise?
Where do I report aircraft noise near Boulder?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boulder County
Compare Boulder County to another location·View the Colorado noise ordinances overview
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