Wisconsin Aircraft Noise Federal Preemption Rules

Under the federal Airline Deregulation Act and FAA authority, Wisconsin municipalities cannot regulate aircraft operations, flight paths, or in-flight noise. Wisconsin Statute Chapter 114 (Aeronautics) provides state-level oversight of airports and aviation, and Wis. Stat. § 114.04 vests sovereignty over airspace consistent with federal law. Local airport noise ordinances must comply with FAA Part 150 noise compatibility planning. Municipalities retain limited authority over airport zoning and ground-based noise but cannot impose curfews or operational restrictions without federal approval.

Local ordinances attempting to restrict aircraft operations are typically unenforceable. FAA enforcement applies to pilots violating federal noise rules; civil penalties vary.