Simpsonville, SC Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Aircraft noise
- Exempt from city code
- Governed by
- FAA / federal regulation
- Condition
- Federal compliance required
- Also exempt
- Railroad operation noise
- Section
- Code § 18-85(5)
Summary
Simpsonville's noise code expressly exempts 'aircraft in flight or in operation at an airport,' provided applicable federal regulations are met. Aircraft noise is governed by the FAA, not city ordinance, so the city sets no local aircraft-noise limit.
The sound produced by the following, provided there is compliance with any federal regulations applicable to the noise: (i) Aircraft in flight or in operation at an airport; (ii) Railroad equipment in operation on railroad rights-of-way.
Full Breakdown
Sec. 18-85(5) exempts the sound produced by aircraft in flight or in operation at an airport, railroad equipment on rights-of-way, and lawfully operated motor vehicles, 'provided there is compliance with any federal regulations applicable to the noise.' This reflects federal preemption: the FAA regulates aircraft noise nationally, and municipalities cannot set their own overflight limits. Residents troubled by aircraft noise near Greenville-area airports should raise concerns through the airport authority or FAA rather than city code enforcement. Ground-based airport equipment or facilities may still be subject to the city's general nuisance standard where not federally governed.
Violations & Fines
No city penalty applies to exempt aircraft noise; complaints are directed to the FAA or the relevant airport authority rather than Simpsonville code enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Simpsonville limit aircraft noise?
Is any airport noise regulated locally?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Simpsonville
Compare Simpsonville to another location·View the South Carolina noise ordinances overview
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