Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is south of Seattle city limits; Boeing Field (BFI) is within city limits. FAA preempts local aircraft noise regulation. Seattle works with FAA and Port of Seattle on noise abatement procedures.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is located approximately 13 miles south of downtown Seattle and significantly affects neighborhoods in south Seattle, Beacon Hill, Georgetown, and Rainier Valley. The Port of Seattle operates one of the nation's most comprehensive aircraft noise reduction programs, having spent over $300 million insulating more than 9,000 homes since 1985. The Noise Remedy Boundary is established under FAA guidelines using DNL (Day-Night average sound Level) metrics. The Late Night Noise Limitation Program monitors airline operations and noise exceedances. The Greener Skies NextGen GPS approach procedures were intended to reduce noise but have concentrated flight paths, drawing community opposition. FAA regulations preempt local noise ordinances for aircraft. A new Part 150 Noise Study began in 2024.
No local enforcement over aircraft noise due to federal FAA preemption. Complaints filed through Port of Seattle at (206) 787-6793 or planenoise.com/ksea.
Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Seattle, WA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle aircraft noise.
See how Seattle's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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