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.
Waco, TX
Waco regulates on-street parking through its traffic ordinances. Vehicles must observe posted signs, time limits, and restrictions near intersections, fire h...
Waco, TX
Waco restricts parking of large commercial vehicles in residential neighborhoods. Heavy trucks and commercial equipment should not be stored on residential s...
Waco, TX
Waco requires driveways to meet city standards for width, grade, and materials. Vehicles must be parked on improved surfaces, not on unpaved yards in residen...
Waco, TX
Waco regulates the parking and storage of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers on residential properties. These vehicles must be stored in approved loc...
Waco, TX
Waco's zoning ordinance sets maximum fence heights in residential areas. Front yard fences are typically limited to 4 feet, while side and rear yard fences m...
Waco, TX
Texas law does not require neighbor consent before building a fence on your property, but Waco's code requires fences to be within property lines and sets st...
See how Waco's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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