East Wenatchee Sets Cryptocurrency Regulations

The East Wenatchee City Council recently voted to amend the city's municipal code to put regulations in place for cryptocurrency mining.

Community Development Director Lori Barnett said the council decided to keep crypto operations outside of residential areas, but not outside of the city entirely. Cryptocurrency and data mining will be allowed in the city's General Commercial Zoning District.

"The area down around Costco; a lot of that is General Commercial Zoning." Barnett explained, "There is also a tiny bit of it up in the north (part of the city)."

The changes also included the city's code regarding cargo containers.

"We did prohibit the use of cargo containers for any uses other than storage during an active construction project." added Barnett, "We've had a problem with cargo containers popping up on properties and it's kind of difficult to go back and do enforcement actions."

Cryptominers will also have to provide an impact study of their proposed operation to the city before any permit can be granted. Douglas County PUD will also be able to review permits.