Houston does not have a specific municipal aircraft noise ordinance. Aircraft noise is regulated primarily by the FAA and federal law. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) maintain voluntary noise abatement programs.
Federal law under 49 U.S.C. Section 47521 et seq. preempts most local aircraft noise regulation. The City of Houston relies on FAA noise standards and the Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990 rather than municipal ordinances. Houston's general noise ordinance Chapter 30 exempts sounds created by aircraft in flight. The Houston Airport System maintains noise monitoring equipment at both IAH and HOU and publishes noise contour maps. Residents with complaints can file with the Houston Airport System Noise Office.
No municipal penalties for aircraft noise. Complaints are handled through the Houston Airport System Noise Office and the FAA. Airport operators face federal enforcement for noise standard violations.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle aircraft noise.
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