The Kingsport Board of Mayor and Aldermen has proposed a new ordinance establishing zoning rules for crypto mining operations and data centers in the city, according to WJHL.
Passed on first reading Tuesday, the ordinance sets standards for data centers and cryptocurrency mining, including setbacks, noise limits and zoning restrictions, while allowing uses under strict supervision. Director Ken Weems said this would protect existing owners.
Under the ordinance, mining of crypto assets, like Bitcoin, would only be permitted in heavy industrial areas and would require special exception approval and ongoing noise and vibration studies due to noise concerns.
Several board members praised the ordinance as a balanced and well-researched approach, noting that it is already under review by other communities.
The ordinance now goes to second reading, where final approval would put it into effect.
The discussion comes as Bitcoin operators have faced intense public scrutiny over noise in neighboring cities.
CleanSpark’s proposed 30-megawatt facility was blocked last year after local officials rejected a key rezoning request, despite assurances that immersion cooling would reduce noise.
Residents have pointed to persistent noise coming from a nearby mining site in Limestone as evidence that such operations conflict with the peace and quiet of residential areas.
