Larimer County is tackling data center rules by listening to the public. Over 7,000 have responded so far.
Larimer County has imposed a moratorium on new data centers through February while developing rules aimed at limiting high-impact hyperscale facilities. Draft regulations would prohibit centers using more than 30 megawatts, require at least 80% renewable energy, ban evaporative cooling, and prevent conversion of agricultural land.
Larimer County officials are using a moratorium on new data centers, lasting through February, to develop regulations for future projects. More than 7,000 residents responded to a county survey, with 94% opposing data centers altogether, but county staff concluded that smaller facilities serving health care, academic and telecommunications needs could have a local role.
The draft rules would block facilities drawing more than 30 megawatts, prohibit evaporative cooling, require at least 80% clean and renewable electricity, and bar conversion of agricultural land. The planning commission is expected to vote on a final draft in December, followed by county commissioners in January. The county is also declining to offer incentives or tax breaks for data centers on unincorporated land.