In a bid to address the challenges posed by cryptocurrency mining operations, Waynesville has taken a decisive step—banning them altogether. The decision was reached as a response to the considerable noise generated by large-scale computer banks engaged in the continuous process of digital currency creation.
Cryptocurrency mining operations, often housed in expansive warehouses, are characterized by disruptive noise, a lack of job creation, offshore bases, and substantial energy consumption. The Waynesville planning board swiftly determined that the most effective solution was a complete ban on these operations across all zoning districts, given their negative impacts and minimal local economic benefits.
The planning board first addressed the issue in July, and within six weeks, a draft proposal for the ban was presented. Meanwhile, the Haywood County planning board underwent a more extended process, researching cryptocurrency mining and eventually deciding to permit such operations if they are situated at least 750 feet from a neighboring property line. However, concerns about the noise, which can extend beyond the 750 feet limit, were raised by members of the public.
Waynesville’s ban on cryptocurrency mines, unanimously recommended by the planning board in September, was officially approved by the town council in October. Prior to the ban’s implementation, a crucial step was the creation of a definition for cryptocurrency mining. However, this definition inadvertently included data centers in the ban.
To address this issue, town council member Jon Feichter emphasized the need to distinguish between a general data center and one that functions specifically as a cryptocurrency mining facility. Town planning staff proposed a separate definition for data centers, with a limitation to commercial and industrial zoning districts. The ban reflects Waynesville’s commitment to mitigating the disruptive effects of cryptocurrency mining operations within its jurisdiction.
