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

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

Phoenix requires a City Council special permit for data centers in the C-2, C-3, CP/GCP, A-1, and A-2 zoning districts, with siting kept at least 2,640 feet from a high-capacity transit station and a signed utility capacity agreement before site plan approval.

Key details: Permit type: City Council special permit required. Eligible districts: C-2, C-3, CP/GCP, A-1, A-2 only. Transit buffer: 2,640 ft from transit station minimum. Utility requirement: Signed capacity agreement before site plan.

Building or operating a data center in Phoenix without City Council special-permit approval, or violating the transit-distance or utility-capacity conditions, can trigger permit revocation under Section 504.1.C.6.b.

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

Data Center Noise Limits

Data centers approved by special permit in Phoenix must hold sound to 55 dB(A) daytime and 45 dB(A) overnight at the nearest residential property line.

Key details: Daytime limit: 55 dB(A), 7 a.m.-10 p.m.. Nighttime limit: 45 dB(A), 10 p.m.-7 a.m.. Measured at: nearest residential property line. Applies to: special-permit data centers. Enforcement point: certificate of occupancy withheld.

A final certificate of occupancy cannot be issued if measured noise exceeds 55 dB(A) daytime or 45 dB(A) nighttime at the residential property line, or the stipulated special-permit standard; failure to comply with special permit requirements is grounds for revocation under Section 504.1.C.6.b.

The Bottom Line

Phoenix'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 Phoenix is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Phoenix 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.