Data Centers & Crypto Mining, Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita maintains 147 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 Santa Clarita falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Data Center Zoning & Siting

The City of Santa Clarita has no data-center ordinance and no "data center" use type in its Unified Development Code. Data centers locate in the Business Park (BP) and Industrial (I) zones, classified into the closest listed industrial use, with CEQA review on discretionary permits.

Key details: Dedicated ordinance: None. Zones: Business Park (BP), Industrial (I). Use type: No "data center" category. Review: CEQA on discretionary permits. Prohibited if: Use not listed for zone.

Building or operating a data center outside the BP or Industrial zones, or without a required conditional use permit, is a Unified Development Code violation enforced through stop-work orders, civil penalties, and abatement.

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

Data Center Noise Limits

Santa Clarita Municipal Code Section 11.44.040 caps noise received on another's property: 65 dB(A) day and 55 dB(A) night in residential zones, and 80 dB(A) day and 70 dB(A) night in commercial and manufacturing zones. Data-center cooling and generators must comply.

Key details: Code: Muni Code Sec. 11.44.040. Residential limit: 65 day / 55 night. Comm/mfg limit: 80 day / 70 night. Day hours: 7 a.m.-9 p.m.. Steady hum penalty: 5 dB(A).

Noise over the Section 11.44.040 limits is a misdemeanor or infraction enforced by the City, and can be abated as a public nuisance by injunction; each day is a separate offense.

The Bottom Line

Santa Clarita'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 Santa Clarita is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Santa Clarita 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.