California Statewide Rule
Aircraft Noise Standards in California
Key Facts
- Standard
- 65 dB CNEL boundary
- Authority
- Caltrans Aeronautics
- Code
- Title 21 CCR §5000+
- Federal overlay
- FAA preemption
Summary
California sets statewide airport noise limits under Title 21 CCR, with the state preempting most local aviation noise control because federal FAA authority dominates aircraft operations in flight.
The department shall adopt noise standards governing the operation of aircraft and aircraft engines for airports operating under a valid permit issued by the department to an extent not prohibited by federal law. The standards shall be based upon the level of noise acceptable to a reasonable person residing in the vicinity of the airport.
Full Breakdown
California's Airport Noise Standards in Title 21, Division 2.5 of the California Code of Regulations cap acceptable airport noise impact at a 65 dB CNEL contour and require airport proprietors to monitor and mitigate excess noise on surrounding land uses. Cities and counties cannot directly regulate aircraft in flight because federal law (the Airline Deregulation Act and FAA Act) preempts local airspace rules, leaving California's Caltrans Division of Aeronautics as the principal state authority. Local jurisdictions retain only limited proprietor controls at airports they operate.
Violations & Penalties
Airport proprietors that fail to comply with the 65 dB CNEL standard may face state enforcement, loss of operating variance approvals, and civil liability to impacted residents through inverse condemnation actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my city ban loud planes overhead?
Who do I complain to about aircraft noise?
Sources
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