Palmdale uses Air Force AICUZ noise contours and AF Land Use Compatibility Guidelines to restrict noise-sensitive uses (residential, schools, assisted living) within the 65 dBA CNEL contour and Frequent Overflight Area for Plant 42.
Palmdale is home to U.S. Air Force Plant 42 and lies near Edwards Air Force Base operations. The city's General Plan requires use of AICUZ (Air Installations Compatible Use Zones) overlay maps and Air Force Land Use Compatibility Guidelines when reviewing land-use proposals. Noise-sensitive uses such as residential, religious institutions, schools, and assisted living facilities are restricted within the 65 dBA CNEL contour and Frequent Overflight Area unless mitigation prevents adverse health impacts. Property sales within the Accident Potential Zone (APZ) and AICUZ require a disclosure statement. Property owners seeking land use actions must provide an aviation easement to the Los Angeles Department of Airports, the U.S. Air Force, and the City of Palmdale.
Land-use approvals denied when proposals fall in restricted contours without compatible mitigation. Failure to disclose at sale exposes seller to civil claims.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle aircraft noise.
See how Palmdale's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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