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Napa, CA Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)

Some Restrictions

Source: California Public Utilities Code 21669 →

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Key Facts

Standard: 65 dB CNEL boundary
Authority: Caltrans Aeronautics
Code: Title 21 CCR §5000+
Federal overlay: FAA preemption

California state rule: Napa does not have a local ordinance for aircraft noise. This topic is governed by California state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

California sets statewide airport noise limits under Title 21 CCR, with the state preempting most local aviation noise control because federal FAA authority dominates aircraft operations in flight.

Full Breakdown

California's Airport Noise Standards in Title 21, Division 2.5 of the California Code of Regulations cap acceptable airport noise impact at a 65 dB CNEL contour and require airport proprietors to monitor and mitigate excess noise on surrounding land uses. Cities and counties cannot directly regulate aircraft in flight because federal law (the Airline Deregulation Act and FAA Act) preempts local airspace rules, leaving California's Caltrans Division of Aeronautics as the principal state authority. Local jurisdictions retain only limited proprietor controls at airports they operate.

Violations & Fines

Airport proprietors that fail to comply with the 65 dB CNEL standard may face state enforcement, loss of operating variance approvals, and civil liability to impacted residents through inverse condemnation actions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my city ban loud planes overhead?

No. Federal law preempts municipal regulation of aircraft in flight. California's state rules govern airport-side noise contours, but cities cannot impose flight path or altitude restrictions.

Who do I complain to about aircraft noise?

Contact the airport proprietor's noise office first, then Caltrans Division of Aeronautics for state-level concerns and the FAA for in-flight or air traffic control issues.

How does Napa compare?

See how Napa's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.

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Napa, CA Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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