While larger governments (and court systems) tend to regulate noise by rules that specify noise limits in dBA, local governments and other interested parties tend to use setbacks. Most of these setbacks were created empirically, typically set where complaints stopped or were at least minimized. Most developers maintain that large fixed setbacks are unnecessary, as they claim to have the tools to customize each installation to minimize any problems. Unfortunately, historical experience does not support this claim. On the other hand, fixed setbacks pretty much relieve the developer of any legal problems with noise. So most developers can live with fixed setbacks, as long as they don't limit the number of turbines too much.

Bill Palmer wrote this nice explanation on setbacks, along with this chart comparing European and Canadian setbacks.

Below is a sampling of setbacks that are either part of a local government's zoning rules, or a recommendation from an interested party, or a negotiated settlement with a developer.

• World Health Organization - 1500 metres
• France, Academy of Medicine - 1500 metres
• England, UK Noise Association - 1 mile
• Riverside, California, city council - 2 miles
• Cartier, Manitoba, city council - 2000 metres
• Ontario MOE - 350 metres, updated to 550 metres mid-2009
• Wolfe Island - 400 metres
• Ripley - 700 metres
• Kincardine/Enbridge - 450 metres
• Kittitas county, Washington - 1640 feet
• Frey - 2000 metres