Palmdale, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Noise Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Chapter 9.18
- No dBA numbers; nuisance test
- Numeric standard
- 65 dBA CNEL property line
- Source
- Noise Element Policy N-1.3
- Zoning hook
- PMC 17.84.050 and 17.67.020
- Industrial near homes
- Residential levels, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.
Summary
Palmdale sets no decibel table in its noise chapter. The numeric standard is 65 dBA CNEL at the property line, from General Plan Noise Element Policy N-1.3, applied to industrial uses through PMC 17.67.020 and 17.84.050.
Industrial uses shall operate pursuant to PMC Chapter 17.84 (Performance Standards). When industrial uses are located next to residential uses, industrial operations shall not produce noise levels in excess of those allowed for uses in residential areas as stipulated in the Noise Element of the General Plan between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., daily.
Full Breakdown
Palmdale Municipal Code Chapter 9.18 bans loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise that unreasonably disturbs a neighborhood, judging volume, duration, time of day, and zoning - it carries no dBA figures. The number comes from the Palmdale 2045 General Plan Noise Element. Policy N-1.3 requires an acoustical analysis and mitigation when a proposed stationary noise source could exceed 65 dBA CNEL at the property line, and caps the mitigated result at 65 dBA CNEL. PMC 17.84.050 binds every use to the Noise Element. PMC 17.67.020 adds that industrial uses next to residential uses must not exceed residential noise levels from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Data-center chillers and generators are stationary sources measured against these limits.
Violations & Fines
Noise violating Chapter 9.18 is enforced by the City through citations and penalties, and a project exceeding its Noise Element mitigation commitments breaches the conditions of its planning approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can a data center be in Palmdale?
Does Palmdale's noise ordinance list decibel limits?
What protects homes next to an industrial data center in Palmdale?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Palmdale
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