Folsom, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Noise Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- Muni Code Sec. 8.42.040
- Residential limit
- 50 dBA day / 45 night
- Absolute cap
- 70 dBA day / 65 night
- Measured at
- Affected residence, within 50 feet
- Substation & AC cap
- 50 dBA
Summary
Folsom caps exterior noise at any affected residence, not the source's own property line. Under Municipal Code Section 8.42.040 the residential standard is 50 dBA daytime and 45 dBA at night, never to exceed 70/65 dBA. Data-center cooling, generators, and substations must comply.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 8.42.040 and 8.42.050, noise sources associated with the operation of electrical substations shall not exceed 50 dBA when measured as provided in Section 8.42.030.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 1369, passed April 28, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Folsom's Noise Control ordinance, Municipal Code Chapter 8.42, is receiver-based: noise is measured within 50 feet of the affected residence, school, church, hospital, or library, not at the data center's fence. Section 8.42.040 sets the exterior standard at 50 dBA daytime (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and 45 dBA nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.), with an absolute cap of 70/65 dBA. A continuous source such as cooling towers or generators is held to these limits the entire hour, and tonal or recurring noise loses another 5 dBA. Section 8.42.070 caps air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment at 50 dBA; Section 8.42.080 caps electrical substations at 50 dBA.
Violations & Fines
Noise over the Chapter 8.42 limits is an infraction: written notice first, then $100, $200, and $500 fines, and the city may seek a court-ordered injunction and abate it as a public nuisance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can a data center be near homes in the City of Folsom?
How does Folsom's noise rule differ from Sacramento County's?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Folsom
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