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Data Centers & Crypto Mining

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

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles data centers & crypto mining a little differently. In Glendale, 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

Glendale has no data-center ordinance and no "data center" use in its Zoning Code. Data centers site in the IND industrial zone under Chapter 30.13, permitted by right where the community development director classifies them as research and development, office, or utility use.

Key details: Dedicated ordinance: None. Zoning code: City's own Title 30. Zone: IND industrial (Chapter 30.13). By-right: R&D, office, or utility use. Moratorium: None adopted.

Building or operating a data center outside a zone that permits it, or without a required Conditional Use Permit, is a Title 30 zoning violation enforced by Community Development through stop-work orders, penalties, and abatement.

Data Center Noise Limits

Glendale caps exterior noise at the property line under Municipal Code Chapter 8.36. Section 8.36.040 sets 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime at single-family homes, 65 dBA in commercial areas, and 70 dBA in industrial zones. A data center's cooling and generators must comply.

Key details: Code: Muni Code Ch. 8.36. Home limit: 55 day / 45 night dBA. Commercial limit: 65 dBA anytime. Industrial limit: 70 dBA anytime. Steady hum: Minus 5 dBA.

Noise over the Chapter 8.36 limits is a violation enforced by the City as a misdemeanor and public nuisance, and it can breach the noise conditions placed on a data center's Conditional Use Permit.

The Bottom Line

Glendale'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 Glendale is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Glendale 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.