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Data Centers & Crypto Mining

How Riverside Handles Data Centers & Crypto Mining: A Practical Guide

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Riverside maintains 190 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 Riverside falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Data Center Zoning & Siting

The City of Riverside has no dedicated data-center ordinance. Title 19 does not list data centers, so the Community & Economic Development Director sites them in the BMP, General Industrial (I), or Airport (AIR) zones as a use similar to permitted research, warehousing, or manufacturing.

Key details: Dedicated ordinance: None. Zoning code: Title 19. Industrial zones: BMP, I, AI, AIR. Use determination: CEDD Director (Ch. 19.060). Large projects: CUP plus CEQA.

Building or operating a data center in a non-industrial zone, or without a required conditional use permit, is an unlawful use enforced by the Community & Economic Development Department and Zoning Administrator through permit denial and code enforcement.

Data Center Noise Limits

The City's noise ordinance caps exterior sound at 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA at night at a residential property line. Unlike Riverside County, the City does not exempt cooling equipment: air conditioners and refrigeration devices are named, regulated noise sources.

Key details: Residential cap: 55 dBA day / 45 night. Industrial cap: 70 dBA. Measured at: Complainant's property line. Cooling equipment: Regulated, not exempt. First-offense fine: $500.

Exceeding the exterior limits at a neighboring property line is enforced by Code Enforcement and the Riverside Police Department. Fines run $500 for a first violation, $750 for a second within 180 days, and $1,000 thereafter.

The Bottom Line

Riverside'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 Riverside is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Riverside'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.