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Data Centers & Crypto Mining

Bakersfield's Data Centers & Crypto Mining: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles data centers & crypto mining a little differently. In Bakersfield, California, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Data Center Zoning & Siting

Bakersfield has no dedicated data center ordinance. A data center is an industrial use sited in the M-1, M-2, or M-3 manufacturing zones under Municipal Code Title 17. Because servers are not a named use, an unlisted use needs a conditional use permit and CEQA review.

Key details: Dedicated Ordinance: None; general industrial zoning. Zones: M-1, M-2, M-3 manufacturing. Unlisted Use Permit: Conditional use permit. Governing Section: Zoning Title 17, 17.64.020.B. Environmental: CEQA review applies.

Building or expanding a data center outside an industrial zone, or without a required conditional use permit and CEQA clearance, is an unlawful use: the Community Development Department can deny building permits until the project conforms.

This is one of the stricter rules in Bakersfield's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Data Center Noise Limits

Bakersfield sets no numeric decibel cap at the property line for cooling equipment or generators. Its noise ordinance (Chapter 9.22) is a nuisance standard: it is unlawful to make loud, unnecessary noise that disturbs the peace or annoys people within 1,000 feet (Section 9.22.030).

Key details: Numeric dB Cap: None for equipment. Standard: Nuisance test, Sec. 9.22.030. Disturbance Radius: Within 1,000 feet. Repeat-Response Fee: Sec. 9.22.060. CEQA Guideline: 65 CNEL General Plan.

Cooling or generator noise that disturbs a neighborhood or annoys residents within 1,000 feet violates Section 9.22.030 and draws code enforcement; the noise and vibration impact test in Section 17.28.020.B can also be enforced as a zoning violation.

This is one of the stricter rules in Bakersfield's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

The Bottom Line

Bakersfield is tougher than many cities when it comes to data centers & crypto mining. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Bakersfield, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Bakersfield can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.