Martinez has no municipal airport and aircraft noise is primarily regulated at the federal level by the FAA. Buchanan Field Airport in nearby Concord generates some general aviation overflight, and Travis AFB and Oakland International operations affect the area. The city does not set local aircraft noise limits, but CEQA noise contour analysis informs residential development near flight corridors.
Aircraft noise in Martinez is subject to federal preemption under the Airline Deregulation Act and FAA regulations — cities cannot set local aircraft altitude or noise limits. The nearest airports affecting Martinez are Buchanan Field Airport (CCR) in Concord, approximately 6 miles southeast, and Oakland International Airport (OAK) roughly 25 miles southwest. General aviation training flights from Buchanan Field occasionally produce overflight noise in east Martinez neighborhoods, while commercial flights from Oakland and San Francisco International cross high altitude over the region. Military flights from Travis Air Force Base (Solano County) occasionally transit the area. Contra Costa County operates a Noise Complaint Hotline for Buchanan Field at (925) 646-5722 and publishes annual noise contour maps. Martinez CEQA review for new residential development in flight corridors considers 65 dB CNEL as the threshold for residential compatibility, with mitigations (sound-attenuating windows, ventilation systems) required above that level. The city has no curfew authority over aircraft. Residents concerned about aircraft noise can file complaints with the FAA Noise Portal or the relevant airport authority. Helicopter operations associated with Shell Refinery emergencies, medical transport to John Muir Medical Center, and news coverage are exempt from most restrictions.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Martinez, CA
Martinez restricts RV, boat, and trailer storage on residential properties. Storage in front yards or street-facing side yards is typically prohibited; these...
Martinez, CA
Martinez does not impose a blanket overnight street parking ban, but vehicles cannot remain parked longer than 72 consecutive hours under CVC 22651(k). Overs...
Martinez, CA
Standard residential fences in Martinez up to 6 feet in height generally do not require a building permit. Fences over 6 feet, retaining walls over 3 feet, p...
Martinez, CA
Martinez allows fences up to 6 feet high in side and rear yards and up to 3.5 feet in front yards or within street-facing setback areas. Corner lot visibilit...
Martinez, CA
Wildlife in Martinez is protected under California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations — feeding deer, coyotes, raccoons, turkeys, and other wildlife...
Martinez, CA
Beekeeping is permitted on residential properties in Martinez with setback requirements — hives must be at least 10 feet from property lines and 25 feet from...
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