Data Centers & Crypto Mining in Springdale, AR

If you live in Springdale or are thinking about moving there, data centers & crypto mining are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Springdale has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of data centers & crypto mining, and some of them might surprise you.

Data Center Noise Limits

Springdale, Arkansas subjects digital-asset-mining and similar data-center-type facilities to the citywide noise code's industrial-zone limits: 85 decibels by day and 80 at night, measured at the property line.

Key details: Industrial-zone limit: 85 dB(A) day, 80 dB(A) night. Residential-zone limit: 65 dB(A) day, 60 dB(A) night. Also requires: conditional use permit, commercial design review. Max fine: $1,000 per violation, $500/day continuing.

Violating the noise limit is punishable under Springdale Code § 1-9: a fine up to $1,000 per offense (double for repeats), or $500/day for a continuing violation.

Crypto Mining Rules

Springdale defines digital asset mining as a computing operation drawing over 1 MW to secure a blockchain, and only allows it as a conditional use in the I-1 light industrial and I-2 general industrial zoning districts.

Key details: Power threshold: Over 1 MW average annual draw. Zoning status: Conditional use only, not by-right. Allowed districts: I-1 light industrial, I-2 general industrial. Approval body: Planning commission, conditional use permit.

Operating a digital asset mining facility outside I-1/I-2 zones, or without planning commission approval of the conditional use, is a zoning violation enforceable under Articles 9 and 10 of the ordinance.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Springdale actively enforces its crypto mining rules requirements.

Data Center Zoning & Siting

Beyond the I-1/I-2 conditional-use limit, Springdale requires digital asset mining facilities to avoid stressing the electric grid and to meet the city's commercial design and noise-ordinance standards.

Key details: Grid impact: No stress on utility generation/transmission. Design standard: Must meet § 112-15 commercial design rules. Noise: Subject to Ch. 42, Art. III noise code. Process: Conditional use per Art. 2, § 12.

Failing to meet the grid-impact, commercial design, or noise standards in § 4.5 can void the conditional use approval and expose the operator to zoning and noise-ordinance enforcement.

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

The Bottom Line

Springdale is tougher than many cities when it comes to data centers & crypto mining. Out of the 3 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Springdale, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Springdale 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.