Pasadena, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Noise Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- Muni Code Ch. 9.36
- Standard
- Ambient + 5 dB(A)
- Machinery/fans
- Sec. 9.36.090
- Steady tone penalty
- Plus 5 dB(A)
- Measured at
- Property line
Summary
Pasadena sets no fixed decibel ceiling. Its noise ordinance, Municipal Code Chapter 9.36, makes it unlawful for any machinery, fan, or air-conditioning device to raise noise at a property line more than 5 decibels above the ambient level - and adds 5 decibels for a steady audible tone.
It is unlawful for any person to operate any machinery, equipment, pump, fan, air conditioning apparatus or similar mechanical device in any manner so as to create any noise which would cause the noise level at the property line of any property to exceed the ambient noise level by more than 5 decibels.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 79 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Pasadena's noise standard is relative, not absolute. Section 9.36.090 bars operating any machinery, pump, fan, or air-conditioning device so the property-line noise exceeds the ambient level by more than 5 decibels; Section 9.36.050 applies the same 5-decibel-over-ambient cap to general noise. Section 9.36.040 adds a 5-decibel penalty to any steady audible tone - the continuous hum of data-center chillers and cooling fans - and a further 5 for repeated impulsive noise. The multifamily interior standard (Section 9.36.060) is 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Violations are misdemeanors enforced by the environmental health division.
Violations & Fines
Noise over the ambient-plus-5-decibel limit is a misdemeanor and public nuisance under Chapter 9.36, enforced by the environmental health division through citations, abatement, and civil action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can a data center be in Pasadena?
What noise rule covers data-center cooling in Pasadena?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pasadena
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