Griggs v. Allegheny County

In Griggs v. Allegheny County, 369 U.S. 84, 87 (1962), civilian airplane overflights caused noise comparable to that of "a riveting machine or steam hammer" that made people in the house unable to converse or sleep. The overflights caused vibrations that separated plaster from the walls and ceilings, and the residents became nervous and distraught. Id. Residential use became impossible, and the claimants were forced to move out of their home. Id. Applying Causby, the Supreme Court held that the overflights had so interfered with the claimants' use and enjoyment of their property that a taking occurred. Id. at 87-88.