Lawton, OK Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Crypto Mining Rules (2026)

The zoning code's definitions section, Section 18-1-1-106, added three digital-asset terms: 'digital asset mining' is defined as 'using electricity to power a computer or node for the purpose of securing a blockchain network,' a 'digital asset mining business' is 'a group of computers working that consume more than one (1) megawatt of energy for the purpose of securing a blockchain protocol,' and 'home digital asset mining' covers the same activity carried on in a residentially zoned area. Section 18-6-14-646(A)(8) then permits 'digital asset mining business or data center' as a use in the I-1 Restricted Manufacturing and Warehouse District, but only where peak electrical demand does not exceed 2 megawatts, and only subject to written clearance from the local electrical provider that there is sufficient infrastructure in place to safely support the use without negatively impacting service to existing customers.

That utility sign-off functions as a gating condition on the permitted-use listing itself, not a separate discretionary hearing. Above 2 megawatts, the same use moves out of I-1's by-right list entirely: Section 18-6-17-682(A)(14) in the I-4 Heavy Industrial District requires the operator to obtain approval as a use permitted on review under Section 18-113 before a larger facility can locate in the city at all. The city council added this whole framework, along with parallel I-2 and I-3 language, through Ordinance No. O-2026-7 in February 2026.