Aircraft Noise Federally Preempted in Vermont

Aircraft noise regulation in Vermont is governed by the federal Aviation Act and FAA rules, which preempt state and local laws affecting aircraft operations, routes, and altitudes. Vermont's aeronautics statutes at 5 V.S.A. chapter 9 recognize federal supremacy over flight operations. Local ordinances purporting to limit overflights, helicopter routes, or in-air noise are unenforceable. Airport proprietors, including state-owned facilities, may impose reasonable, non-discriminatory ground-based noise rules such as curfews when acting in their proprietary capacity. Complaints about persistent aircraft noise should be directed to the FAA Noise Portal or the airport operator rather than local police.

No local penalties may apply to aircraft in flight; airport-adopted ground rules may carry fines set by the airport operator under federal grant assurances.