Margate, FL Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)

Chapter 3 of the Margate Code is the city's aircraft chapter, and Section 3-2 is its noise rule: unnecessary noise by operators of aircraft within or over the corporate limits of the city is prohibited. The chapter sets no decibel figure, so the standard is whether the noise was necessary.

Section 3-1 defines "aircraft" broadly: any aeroplane, airplane, helicopter, gas bag, flying machine or balloon, or any other contrivance used or designed for navigation or flight in the air. A parachute or other contrivance used primarily as safety equipment is excluded.

Several neighboring sections limit how aircraft can operate over the city. Section 3-5 prohibits acrobatic flying over any residential or business portion of the city. Section 3-7 sets a minimum height sufficient for a reasonably safe emergency landing, and in no case less than 1,000 feet, except when taking off or landing at an established landing field or airport, or when special circumstances, weather or another unavoidable cause require a departure. Section 3-4 requires a permit from the chief of police, with a fee of $5.00 for each flight, before anyone flies exhibition flights carrying banners or operating loudspeaking devices, and the chief will not issue it unless the operator is licensed by the civil aeronautics administration. Section 3-6 bars landing anywhere except a regularly established airport field or landing place, unless the City Commission grants the right after finding indemnity, co-insured liability coverage and no detriment to the public interest, with noise and nuisance among the factors it weighs.

Section 3-8 exempts aircraft used for agricultural or pesticide spraying, authorized surveillance aircraft, aircraft of any governmental agency having jurisdiction within the city, and aircraft of anyone who has cooperated with the City of Margate government.