Can Colorado cities limit aircraft noise?

No. Federal law preempts direct regulation of aircraft in flight, and C.R.S. 25-12-103 expressly excludes aircraft from Colorado's noise abatement decibel limits.

Where do I complain about aircraft noise in Colorado?

Contact the airport's noise office or file with the FAA. Local police and code enforcement cannot cite aircraft operators for noise under state or municipal law.

Colorado Aircraft Noise Law: Statewide Noise Ordinances Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Federal authority: 49 U.S.C. 40103
Colorado exemption: C.R.S. 25-12-103 excludes aircraft
Airport proprietor rule: FAA Part 161 process
Local enforcement: Generally preempted
Complaint path: Airport noise office or FAA

Full Breakdown

Federal law under 49 U.S.C. 40103 and 14 C.F.R. Part 91 preempts state and local regulation of aircraft in flight, including noise from takeoffs, landings, and overflights. Colorado does not impose decibel limits on aircraft, and C.R.S. 25-12-103 expressly excludes aircraft from its noise abatement scheme. Airport proprietors, including Denver International and other municipal airports, may establish reasonable, non-discriminatory operating restrictions through FAA-approved Part 161 procedures, but cities and counties cannot enforce general noise ordinances against aircraft. Complaints are routed through airport noise offices and the FAA.

Violations & Penalties

Local noise enforcement against aircraft is generally invalid; complaints must be directed to the FAA or to airport proprietors who may impose airport-specific operating curfews subject to federal review.

Colorado Aircraft Noise Federally Preempted Statewide

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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