Are 'Sonic Booms' illegal?

[bigwhitecobra]

I've been milling it over for a few days, and have decided to post this in hopes that some one will have more knowledge on the subject.

Sunday around 5pm, there was this loud abrupt boom that shook our house, and as I found out later, countless other houses in about a 10 mile area. I can only think of one thing that will cause that; a Sonic Boom.
Today, in downtown Charlotte, a fighter jet (not sure what type) buzzed the tops of the buildings. Now, I'm not saying that there is some sort of conspiracy going on, but to my understanding, this type of behavior is at best, frowned upon by the commanding generals of the Air Force and the like.
Anyone know if Sonic Booms are allowed, and if so under what conditions? What about fly-by's of commercial buildings?

Anyway, back to life.

Later, guys.