Aircraft noise in Maryland is preempted by federal law under the Federal Aviation Act and 14 CFR Part 36. Neither the state nor municipalities may regulate flight operations or in-flight noise emissions, though airport proprietors retain limited authority.
Federal law occupies the field of aircraft noise regulation through the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 and the Noise Control Act of 1972. Maryland's COMAR 26.02.03.06 expressly exempts aircraft in flight from state noise limits, recognizing federal preemption. The Maryland Aviation Administration coordinates noise abatement programs at BWI Marshall and Martin State airports under federal Part 150 noise compatibility studies. Airport proprietors may impose limited curfews and operational restrictions if FAA-approved, but local governments cannot directly regulate aircraft. Ground-based airport operations and run-up testing remain subject to state and local noise rules.
Federal sanctions only for in-flight noise; state and local violations limited to ground-based airport activity exceeding decibel limits.
Anne Arundel County, MD
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Anne Arundel County, MD
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Anne Arundel County, MD
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Anne Arundel County, MD
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Anne Arundel County, MD
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