Salt Lake City, UT Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)

Section 21A.34.040 sets up airport influence zones on figure 3-1 of the airport's land use policy plan, and the boundaries are reflected in the zoning map. Zone A is the area exposed to very high levels of aircraft noise, Zone B to high levels, and Zone C to moderate levels. Zone H carries height restrictions only, so its uses are the same as the underlying city zone.

In Zone A, residential uses and institutional uses such as schools, hospitals, churches and rest homes are prohibited. Commercial buildings are allowed only with air circulation systems and at least twenty five (25) dBs of sound attenuation. Hotels and motels need at least thirty (30) dBs in sleeping areas and twenty five (25) dBs elsewhere.

In Zone B, residential uses are prohibited except residences in agricultural zones with air circulation systems and at least twenty five (25) dBs. Schools, hospitals, churches and rest homes need the same twenty five (25) dBs, and hotels and motels need it in sleeping areas. In Zone C, residential uses and institutional uses must have air circulation systems, and mobile homes also need at least twenty (20) dBs.

The code closes a loophole: when a change of use occurs, the entire structure must comply. When a building other than a single-family or two-family dwelling is remodeled or altered, only the area involved in the work must comply. Development in zones A, B or C also requires acknowledgment of the existing prescriptive avigation easement. That covers subdivisions and new construction on vacant land, except plats approved and filed before September 13, 1983, and remodeling or additions with no change of use. The easement requirement is separate from the sound attenuation rules.

The dB standards are enforced through Title 18, chapter 18.88. Plans in zones A, B or C that need sound attenuation must include a plan prepared by a licensed architect, covering materials, construction methods with sound transmission control rating design numbers, and the decibel level achieved. A verified report and a written guarantee from the owner and contractor must accompany it.