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West Haven, CT Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)

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Key Facts

Federal law: ANCA, 49 USC 47521
Preempts: State and local rules
FAA authority: 14 CFR Part 161
Key case: Tweed-New Haven v. Tong
Local control: Effectively none

Connecticut state rule: West Haven does not have a local ordinance for aircraft noise. This topic is governed by Connecticut state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

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.

Full Breakdown

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.

Violations & Fines

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Connecticut town pass a curfew on overflights?

No. Federal law preempts municipal regulation of aircraft in flight. Even airport-proprietor curfews require extensive FAA review under Part 161 and consent of all affected operators.

Where do I complain about aircraft noise in Connecticut?

Complaints should be directed to the specific airport proprietor (such as Bradley International or Tweed-New Haven) and to the FAA noise complaint system, since municipalities lack authority to act.

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West Haven, CT Noise Ordinances: Aircraft Noise (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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