Monterey County, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Noise Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing Code
- Chapter 10.60 (amended 2024)
- Anytime Cap
- 70 dBA at 50 feet
- Nighttime (9pm-7am)
- 45 dBA Leq, 65 dBA max
- Measured
- 50 feet or more from source
- Enforcement
- Warning, then admin citation
Summary
Monterey County Code Chapter 10.60 bars any machine or device producing more than 70 dBA measured 50 feet or more from it, at any time of day. From 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. a 45 dBA hourly Leq (65 dBA maximum) also applies to data-center cooling and generators.
At any time of the day, it is prohibited within the unincorporated area of the County of Monterey to operate, assist in operating, allow, or cause to be operated any machine, mechanism, device, or contrivance which produces a noise level that exceeds seventy (70) dBA measured fifty (50) feet or more therefrom.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 56).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 10.60 of the Monterey County Code, amended by the Board of Supervisors in 2024, sets the countywide noise limits in both the coastal and non-coastal zones. Section 10.60.030 bars operating any machine, mechanism, device, or contrivance producing over 70 dBA measured 50 feet or more from the source, at any time; the cap exempts equipment more than 2,500 feet from any occupied dwelling. Section 10.60.040(B) adds a stricter nighttime standard, 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.: a loud and unreasonable sound includes any plainly audible 50 feet away, or one over 45 dBA hourly Leq (65 dBA maximum). A data center's cooling fans and generator testing are conditioned through Use Permit and CEQA review to meet these figures.
Violations & Fines
Noise over the Chapter 10.60 limits is a code violation. Under Section 10.60.050 the Enforcement Officer gives a verbal warning first, then may issue an administrative citation within 72 hours, or sooner after two warnings in 90 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the noise limit for data-center equipment in Monterey County?
Is data-center noise measured at the property line in Monterey County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Monterey County
California rules heatmap·Compare Monterey County to another location·View the California data centers & crypto mining overview
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