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Data Centers & Crypto Mining

Data Centers & Crypto Mining in Burbank, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Burbank or are thinking about moving there, data centers & crypto mining are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Burbank has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of data centers & crypto mining, and some of them might surprise you.

Data Center Zoning & Siting

Burbank has no data-center ordinance and no "data center" use in its Zoning Code. A data center sites in the M-1 or M-2 industrial zones under Article 8, classified by the City Planner into the closest listed use and requiring a Conditional Use Permit.

Key details: Dedicated ordinance: None. Zones: M-1, M-2 industrial (Article 8). Zoning code: City's own Title 10. Permit: Conditional Use Permit + CEQA. Moratorium: None adopted.

Building or operating a data center outside the M-1 or M-2 zones, or without a required Conditional Use Permit or Development Review approval, is a Title 10 zoning violation enforced by Community Development through stop-work orders, penalties, and abatement.

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

Data Center Noise Limits

Burbank sets noise by an ambient-plus-five rule. Municipal Code Section 9-3-208 bars machinery, fans, and air conditioning from raising the ambient level more than 5 dBA above base levels: 45 dBA residential night, 55 residential day, 65 commercial, 70 industrial. A data center's cooling must comply.

Key details: Code: Muni Code Sec. 9-3-208. Rule: Ambient plus 5 dBA max. Home base: 55 day / 45 night dBA. Industrial base: 70 dBA anytime. Commercial base: 65 dBA anytime.

Noise that raises the ambient level more than 5 dBA over the Section 9-3-208 base limits is a Municipal Code violation enforced by the City, and it can breach the noise conditions on a data center's Conditional Use Permit.

The Bottom Line

Burbank's data centers & crypto mining rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Burbank is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Burbank's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.