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.
Round Rock, TX
Round Rock requires driveways to comply with impervious cover limits and obtain permits for new or expanded driveway construction. Vehicles may be parked on ...
Round Rock, TX
Round Rock allows residential street parking subject to standard restrictions. Vehicles must face the direction of traffic, park no closer than 15 feet from ...
Round Rock, TX
Round Rock restricts commercial vehicle and heavy equipment parking in residential zones. Large commercial trucks and equipment may not be regularly stored o...
Round Rock, TX
Round Rock restricts RV and boat storage in residential front yards. RVs and trailers may not be used as permanent living quarters. Side or rear yard storage...
Round Rock, TX
Round Rock requires a building permit for fences over a certain height. Applications are submitted through Development Services. Pool barriers always require...
Round Rock, TX
Round Rock limits fence height to 6 feet in rear and side yards, and 4 feet in front yards. Zoning Code Ch. 8, Art. IV (§8-35) governs fence location and hei...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Williamson County.
See how Round Rock's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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