Decatur amends zoning laws for data centers
Decatur city leaders have amended the city's zoning laws, classifying data centers as a special exception use in industrial districts. This change allows the city to require studies on fire protection, water use, and hazardous materials for new data center projects.
Decatur, Alabama city leaders have approved an amendment to the city's zoning ordinances, reclassifying data centers as a special exception use within industrial districts. This change mandates that initial data center projects receive approval from the city council before proceeding to the Board of Zoning and Adjustments.
The newly adopted amendment empowers the city to require detailed studies concerning critical infrastructure and public safety, specifically addressing fire protection, water usage, and the management of hazardous materials associated with data center operations.
The ordinance also includes a separate, unrelated provision prohibiting residents from keeping chickens in residential areas, though it does not implement a citywide ban on backyard chickens.