Aircraft noise regulation in Connecticut is preempted by the federal Airport Noise and Capacity Act and FAA authority. Neither cities nor the state may impose flight path or operational noise restrictions; only airport proprietors may set limited, FAA-approved restrictions.
Federal law occupies the field of aircraft noise and operations. The Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990 (49 USC 47521 et seq.) and FAA regulations preempt state and municipal attempts to regulate aircraft in flight, takeoff, or landing noise. The Second Circuit confirmed this preemption in Tweed-New Haven Airport Authority v. Tong, striking a Connecticut statute restricting runway expansion. Connecticut municipalities therefore cannot enforce noise ordinances against overflights or airport operations. Airport proprietors may impose limited Stage 3 access restrictions only after FAA review under 14 CFR Part 161. Ground-based airport activities outside aircraft operations remain subject to general state and local noise rules.
Local ordinances purporting to regulate aircraft noise are unenforceable and subject to federal preemption challenge; airports violating ANCA risk loss of federal airport funding under 49 USC 47524.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and towe...
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new co...
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisa...
See how Waterbury's aircraft noise rules stack up against other locations.
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