AN: Airport Noise Exposure Overlay District Requirements for the City of Reno
The Airport Noise Exposure (AN) Overlay District in the City of Reno requires that specific noise attenuation construction methods be implemented to ensure interior noise levels do not exceed 45 dBA DNL for noise-sensitive uses near airports. Within certain noise contours at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, the City of Reno mandates the installation of air conditioning systems for all dwelling units and requires a height review for any structure exceeding 45 feet in height.
Purpose and Applicability
The primary purpose of the Airport Noise Exposure (AN) Overlay District is to safeguard residents and workers by ensuring that appropriate construction methods are used to mitigate noise impacts from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and the Reno-Stead Airport [Section 18.02.602(b)(1)].
The regulations of the Airport Noise Exposure (AN) Overlay District apply to the following types of development within the City of Reno:
- Residential development;
- Hospitals;
- Religious assemblies;
- Schools;
- Offices; and
- The office portions of industrial or commercial uses [Section 18.02.602(b)(2)a].
Noise Exposure and Construction Standards
For properties located within designated noise contours at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, the City of Reno requires specific submittals and building features to ensure the interior environment meets safety standards.
| Location/Noise Contour | Requirement | Mitigation Goal |
|---|---|---|
| 80 dBA Lmax Contour (Reno-Tahoe International) | Verified list of construction methods from a qualified acoustical consultant. | Maximum interior noise level of 45 dBA DNL [Section 18.02.602(b)(2)b] |
| 1998 65 dBA DNL Contour (Reno-Tahoe International) | Verified list of construction methods from a qualified acoustical consultant. | Maximum interior noise level of 45 dBA DNL [Section 18.02.602(b)(2)c] |
| 1998 65 dBA DNL Contour (Reno-Tahoe International) | Air conditioning systems must be incorporated in all dwelling units. | N/A [Section 18.02.602(b)(2)c] |
Documentation of these construction methods must be submitted to the City of Reno and verified by a qualified professional before any building permit can be issued [Section 18.02.602(b)(2)].
Building Height review
In addition to noise standards, the Airport Noise Exposure (AN) Overlay District regulates structure height to maintain safe airspace. For properties within the City of Reno located on the FAR Part 77 Airspace map for either the Reno-Tahoe International Airport or the Reno-Stead Airport, specific height restrictions and reviews apply.
Any new construction or expansion of an existing structure that reaches a height greater than 45 feet above ground level must provide documentation to the City of Reno. This documentation must prove that the plans have been submitted to the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority for review before the City will approve plans or issue a building permit [Section 18.02.602(b)(3)].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.02.601, Overlay Districts, Generally
- Section 18.02.602, General Overlay Districts