How Daly City Handles Data Centers & Crypto Mining: A Practical Guide
Daly City maintains 50 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with data centers & crypto mining. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Daly City falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Data Center Noise Limits
Daly City's Municipal Code sets no decibel limit for a data center. Chapter 9.22 bars noise heard beyond your property line between ten p.m. and six a.m. The numeric targets sit in the 2030 General Plan Noise Element instead.
Key details: Code: Muni Code Ch. 9.22. dBA limit in code: None. Quiet hours: 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.. Standard: Audible beyond property line. General Plan target: 70 dBA Leq residential.
Noise heard beyond the property line between ten p.m. and six a.m. violates Section 9.22.030 and is enforced by police. A permitted data center also breaches its Use Permit conditions.
Data Center Zoning & Siting
Daly City has no data-center ordinance and no "data center" use in its zoning code. A data center lands in the M Industrial District, Chapter 17.22, where light industrial uses require a Use Permit approved after a Planning Commission hearing.
Key details: Dedicated ordinance: None. Industrial zone: M District, Chapter 17.22. Light industrial: Use Permit required. Decision: Commission hearing, Council action. Industrial land: Bayshore neighborhood only.
Operating a data center without a required Use Permit violates Title 17. Chapter 17.50 lets the city attorney sue to enjoin any violation, and the remedies are cumulative.
The Bottom Line
Daly City'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 Daly City is broadly strict or permissive.
This guide is based on Daly City's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.