John Wayne Airport (SNA) generates significant aircraft noise in unincorporated Orange County. The airport operates under strict departure noise limits and a voluntary nighttime curfew (11 PM to 7 AM). The County monitors noise through a permanent measurement system and maintains noise contour maps affecting residential building requirements.
John Wayne Airport (SNA) in unincorporated area adjacent to Newport Beach generates substantial aircraft noise across central Orange County. The airport operates under a 1985 Settlement Agreement and subsequent amendments imposing departure noise limits of 89.5 dBA single-event level. A voluntary curfew restricts commercial departures between 11 PM and 7 AM and arrivals between 11 PM and 8 AM. The County maintains a permanent noise monitoring system with stations in surrounding communities. Properties within 65+ CNEL noise contours face building restrictions and sound insulation requirements under the Airport Environs Land Use Plan (AELUP). The Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) reviews development proposals within airport influence areas. FAA controls flight paths and altitudes. Fullerton Municipal Airport and Joint Forces Training Base Los Alamitos also contribute aircraft noise. Noise complaints go to JWA Noise Information Office at (949) 252-5185.
Construction within noise contour zones without meeting sound insulation requirements violates AELUP. Building permits may be denied for noise-incompatible uses. FAA governs flight operations exclusively. Noise curfew is voluntary for general aviation.
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See how Orange County's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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