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Yuba County, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Noise Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Noise Ordinance
Yes; County Code Ch. 8.20
Residential Day
About 55 dBA
Residential Night
About 45 dBA
Construction Rule
Sec. 8.20.310 (500 ft, night)
Exemption Permit
Sec. 8.20.710 (6 months)

Summary

Unlike many rural counties, Yuba County has adopted a noise ordinance, Chapter 8.20 of the County Code. It sets exterior limits of 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA at night for residential areas, measured at the property line, and controls a data center's cooling and generator noise.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Yuba County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

in such a manner that a reasonable person of normal sensitiveness residing in the area is caused discomfort or annoyance unless a permit has been duly obtained.

Source: Yuba County Development Code (Title XI) & Noise Ordinance (Chapter 8.20)View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 6).

Full Breakdown

Yuba County Code Chapter 8.20 (Title VIII, Public Peace and Safety) is the county's noise ordinance and the primary tool for stationary sources like data-center chillers, cooling fans, and backup generators. It establishes an ambient base noise level (Section 8.20.140) and exterior noise standards that vary by zone and time: a single-family residential limit of about 55 dBA during the day and 45 dBA from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., with higher levels allowed in industrial districts. Section 8.20.310 makes it unlawful to run construction equipment within 500 feet of a residential zone at night without a permit. A project may seek a temporary exemption permit from the Department of Planning and Building Services under Section 8.20.710.

Violations & Fines

Operating cooling equipment or generators above the Chapter 8.20 exterior limits, or running night construction within 500 feet of homes without a permit, violates the noise ordinance and can bring notices of violation, abatement orders, and enforceable permit conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Yuba County have a decibel limit for data-center noise?
Yes. Unlike neighboring rural counties, Yuba County has a noise ordinance (Chapter 8.20). Residential exterior limits are roughly 55 dBA by day and 45 dBA at night, measured at the property line; industrial districts allow higher levels.
What are the construction-hour noise rules?
Under Section 8.20.310, it is unlawful to operate construction equipment within 500 feet of a residential zone from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. so as to disturb residents, unless the county grants a permit.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Yuba County

All Yuba County rules

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