Aircraft noise in flight is regulated exclusively by the FAA under federal law (49 U.S.C. 40103, 14 CFR Part 36, 91, 150). Texas cities and counties cannot impose noise limits on aircraft operations, though they may regulate ground-based airport activities through Texas Transportation Code Chapter 22.
Federal courts have repeatedly held that the Federal Aviation Act and Airline Deregulation Act preempt state and local regulation of aircraft noise in navigable airspace. Texas municipalities therefore cannot enforce general noise ordinances against airplanes, helicopters, or drones operating under FAA rules. Local airport proprietors can adopt reasonable, nondiscriminatory restrictions on ground operations, runway use, and curfews only if they comply with the federal Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990 and FAA Part 161. Texas Transportation Code Chapter 22 grants municipalities authority to operate airports, acquire avigation easements, and zone for airport hazards consistent with federal law. Noise complaints are handled through the FAA Noise Portal or local airport noise offices.
Local police cannot cite pilots for aircraft noise. Improper airport restrictions adopted without FAA approval are unenforceable and can trigger federal injunctions and loss of FAA grant funding.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Missouri City, TX
Missouri City permits wood, PVC vinyl, ornamental metal, and chain link fencing in residential yards, but prohibits barbed wire on residential lots except fo...
Missouri City, TX
Missouri City requires a fence permit for any fence taller than 7 feet and for masonry fences over 6 feet, while shorter standard fences generally do not nee...
Missouri City, TX
Missouri City's Zoning Ordinance Section 14 caps residential fences at 8 feet, with stricter limits for front yards where only ornamental open fencing is per...
Missouri City, TX
Open burning is prohibited inside Missouri City limits under Chapter 38 of the Code, with narrow exceptions only for barbecue pits used for cooking and appro...
Missouri City, TX
Missouri City restricts outdoor burning under Chapter 38, generally prohibiting open burning of trash, brush, and yard waste unless a fire marshal permit is ...
Missouri City, TX
Missouri City prohibits the sale, possession, and discharge of fireworks within the city limits and within 5,000 feet of the corporate boundary, with limited...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fort Bend County.
See how Missouri City's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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