San Bernardino, CA Data Centers & Crypto Mining: Data Center Zoning & Siting (2026)
Key Facts
- Dedicated ordinance
- None
- Zones
- OIP, IL, IH, IE industrial
- Permit level
- Development Permit (discretionary)
- Classified as
- Communication equipment or R&D use
- Moratorium
- None
Summary
The City of San Bernardino has no data-center use category. A data center locates in its industrial zones - OIP, IL, IH, IE - classified as a public-utility communication equipment structure, research use, or manufacturing use, each needing a Development Permit rather than by-right approval.
The following list represents those primary uses in the industrial zones, which are Permitted (P), subject to an Administrative or Development Permit (D), Minor/Conditional Use Permit (C), or a Commercial Cannabis Business (CCB) Permit. Those with a - are not permitted uses in that zone.
Full Breakdown
San Bernardino's own Development Code (Title 19), Chapter 19.08, does not name "data center" in its industrial use table. A server facility is classified into the nearest listed use - item 29 "public utility uses, distribution and transmission substations and communication equipment structures," item 33 "Research and Development," or an enclosed manufacturing use. Each carries a "D," requiring a discretionary Development Permit under Chapter 19.44, not ministerial by-right approval. Section 19.08.030 states all uses need a Development Permit or Conditional Use Permit. Outside operations within 150 feet of a residential district require a Conditional Use Permit. The City has adopted no data-center moratorium.
Violations & Fines
Building or operating a data center in an industrial zone without the required Development Permit, or outside an industrial zone entirely, is a Development Code violation enforced by Code Enforcement through stop-work orders, penalties, and abatement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can data centers be built in the City of San Bernardino?
Does San Bernardino require a permit for a data center?
How can residents get data-center standards adopted in San Bernardino?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino
California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino to another location·View the California data centers & crypto mining overview
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Data Center Zoning & Siting in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Bernardino County handle data center zoning & siting.