That area is loaded with tree huggers too, if I remember correctly. Just go biodiesel with one of your projects and they'll love you for it no matter how much noise you make.
I agree, though, big east-coast cities with large (or at least formerly large) industrial bases seem to be better places for good bone yards. Zoning issues make it hard to run a scrap yard in newly developed areas, as you pointed out. These days fewer people are do-it-yourselfers anyway, it seems. Good luck.