Pleasanton, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Zoning & Siting (2026)

Section 18.08.264 defines 'innovation-based business' to expressly include data centers, alongside research and development, pilot production and biotech testing facilities, and requires design review under Chapter 18.20 in any district that permits the use. Table 18.44.080's use table marks 'Innovation-based business' with footnotes 36, 37 and 38; footnote 38 states that a conditional use permit and design review approval are required for any data center use where an innovation-based business is permitted or conditionally permitted. Footnote 36 adds that a minor conditional use permit is required if the business will store, use or dispose of controlled hazardous materials on site, or if it sits adjacent to a residential or other sensitive receptor use, and imposes performance standards limiting loading docks to two medium-duty bays and requiring ancillary equipment such as transformers and generators to be sited to minimize noise and visual impact.

Footnote 37 bars innovation-based businesses, and therefore data centers, from the Downtown Specific Plan area entirely. Height is capped separately: Section 18.84.150(E) sets a maximum of 85 feet for innovation-based buildings in the C-R(p) district and the Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone portion of PUD-C, and 55 feet in the O, I-P, I-G, PUD-C-O, PUD-I, PUD-I/C-O and PUD-MU districts, with an additional 15 feet allowed only to screen roof-mounted equipment. Buildings over 40 feet must step back upper floors from residential-facing walls to the satisfaction of the zoning administrator.