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.
Shenandoah, TX
Commercial vehicle parking in Shenandoah residential zones is regulated by Chapter 102 (Zoning). Commercial activity in residential areas is restricted. Texa...
Shenandoah, TX
Shenandoah's parking rules are governed by Chapter 62 (Streets) and traffic provisions of the Code of Ordinances. The city's commercial corridor has specific...
Shenandoah, TX
Driveway construction and parking on residential lots in Shenandoah must comply with Chapter 102 (Zoning) and building permit requirements. Parking on unpave...
Shenandoah, TX
RV and boat parking in Shenandoah residential areas is subject to city parking ordinances. Shenandoah's compact residential footprint and zoning code may res...
Shenandoah, TX
Fence height limits in Shenandoah are set by Chapter 102 (Zoning). Residential fences typically follow standard Texas practice of 6 feet in rear/side yards a...
Shenandoah, TX
Fence permits in Shenandoah are required through the Community Development Department. The city has adopted the 2021 International Building Code and related ...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Montgomery County.
See how Shenandoah's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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