Virginia localities cannot regulate aircraft noise in flight because federal aviation law preempts the field, leaving the FAA in sole control of aircraft operations and noise above the ground.
Although Virginia is a Dillon's Rule state and would otherwise allow localities to regulate noise as a public nuisance under implied police powers, aircraft in flight fall under exclusive federal jurisdiction through the Federal Aviation Act. Virginia courts and statutes recognize that municipal noise ordinances cannot be enforced against aircraft operators for noise generated during takeoff, landing, or overflight. The Commonwealth's aviation regulations under Title 5.1 align with federal standards. Localities may regulate ground-based airport activities and zoning around airports but cannot impose decibel limits or curfews on aircraft themselves.
No local penalty available; complaints go to FAA or airport operator.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Vienna, VA
Commercial vehicles over 12,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, tractor-trailers, and vehicles with commercial signage above specified sizes generally ca...
Vienna, VA
On-street parking in Vienna is generally allowed on residential streets unless signed otherwise. Vehicles may not be parked in the same spot on a public stre...
Vienna, VA
Vienna restricts recreational vehicle, boat, and trailer parking on residential property. RVs and boats generally must be stored in a side or rear yard behin...
Vienna, VA
The Town of Vienna regulates fence heights under Chapter 18 (Zoning) of the Town Code, with provisions addressed in Section 18-410. Fences in front yards are...
Vienna, VA
Vienna prohibits backyard chickens and other poultry in residential zones. Unlike some Fairfax County unincorporated areas that allow limited hens on larger ...
Vienna, VA
Vienna limits residents to a reasonable number of domestic pets per household, generally interpreted as no more than 4 dogs or cats over 4 months old in a si...
See how Vienna's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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