El Monte, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Zoning & Siting (2026)
Key Facts
- Dedicated ordinance
- None
- Zones
- M-1, M-2 manufacturing
- By-right
- Light manufacturing, R&D, office
- CUP trigger
- New build near homes / 100k sf
- Discretionary review
- CEQA + hearing
Summary
El Monte has no data-center ordinance and no "data center" use category. Data centers locate in the M-1 (Light Manufacturing) or M-2 (General Manufacturing) zones, classified into the closest listed use - light manufacturing, research and development, or office - under the 2025 Zoning Code, Table 17.42-1.
This zoning district is principally established to provide areas appropriate for a diverse range of light industrial uses, including limited manufacturing and processing, research and development, fabrication, utility equipment and service yards, wholesaling, warehousing, and distribution activities. Other uses such as office, retail and restaurants are also permitted.
Full Breakdown
El Monte's 2025 Zoning Code (Title 17, Chapter 17.42) names no "data center" use. Any use not listed in Table 17.42-1 is barred unless the Planning Director classifies it into an analogous use under Section 17.12.050. A server building operating as light manufacturing, research and development, or an office is permitted by-right with a ministerial building permit. New industrial construction over 5,000 square feet within 150 feet of a residential zone requires a Conditional Use Permit; a distribution or warehouse center of 100,000 square feet or more also needs a CUP. A CUP is discretionary, triggering CEQA review and a Planning Commission hearing. El Monte has adopted no moratorium.
Violations & Fines
Building or operating a data center outside the M-1 or M-2 zones, or without a required Conditional Use Permit, is a zoning violation enforced by El Monte Community Development through stop-work orders, penalties, and abatement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can data centers be built in El Monte?
Does El Monte require a special permit for a data center?
Has El Monte passed a data-center ordinance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Monte
California rules heatmap·Compare El Monte to another location·View the California data centers & crypto mining overview
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