Salinas, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Noise Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- Muni Code Sec. 5-12.01 to .06
- Standard
- Nuisance-based, no dB(A) limit
- Night window
- 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- First fine
- $250
- Adopted
- Ordinance 2619, 2019
Summary
The City of Salinas sets no numeric decibel limits. Its noise ordinance, Municipal Code Sec. 5-12.02, is nuisance-based: it is unlawful to make any noise that disturbs the peace or annoys a reasonable person of normal sensitivity. A data center's cooling and generators must not create a noise disturbance.
it shall be unlawful for any person to willfully or negligently make or continue, or cause to be made or continued, or permit or allow to be made or continued any noise which disturbs the peace and quiet of any neighborhood or which causes any discomfort or annoyance to a reasonable person of normal sensitivity in the area.
"Noise disturbance," for purposes of this article means any sound which (a) endangers or injures the safety or health of human beings or animals or (b) annoys or disturbs reasonable persons of normal sensitivities or (c) endangers or injures persons or real property or (d) violates the factors set forth in this section.
Except as may otherwise be specifically permitted in this Municipal Code, no permit shall be issued for any activity that may violate this section.
When considering whether a noise, sound, or vibration is unreasonable within the meaning of this section, the following factors shall be taken into consideration:
(a)The volume and the intensity of the noise, particularly as it is experienced within a residence or a place of business;(b)Whether the noise is prolonged and continuous;(c)How the noise contrasts with the ambient noise level;(d)The proximity of the noise source to residential and to commercial uses;(e)The time of day;(f)The anticipated duration of the noise;(g)Whether the noise is natural or unnatural; and(h)Any other relevant circumstances or conditions. (Ord. No. 2619(NCS), § 2, 6-18-2019)
Full Breakdown
Salinas has no numeric dB(A) noise standard - unlike Monterey County's 70 dB(A) cap. Municipal Code Chapter 5, Article XII (Sec. 5-12.01 to 5-12.06), adopted by Ordinance 2619 in 2019, prohibits any noise that disturbs a neighborhood or annoys a reasonable person of normal sensitivity. Enforcement weighs the noise's volume, whether it is prolonged and continuous, its contrast with ambient levels, and proximity to homes and businesses. Loading and mechanical noise creating a disturbance across a residential property line between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. is a specific violation. A data center's continuous chillers and backup generators must not create a noise disturbance at any nearby property.
Violations & Fines
Noise that disturbs the peace is a misdemeanor or administrative citation; fines run $250 first offense, $500 second, and $1,000 for third and later violations within twelve months, each hour a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can a data center be in the City of Salinas?
How does Salinas noise enforcement differ from Monterey County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Salinas
California rules heatmap·Compare Salinas to another location·View the California data centers & crypto mining overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.