Chatham County moves toward data center regulations
Chatham County commissioners unanimously voted to amend the county’s zoning ordinance to create data center regulations, with a public hearing on development standards scheduled for Nov. 30. The county’s temporary moratorium was challenged successfully by developer Eco TIP West, while residents and the Haw River Assembly continue to seek stronger protections and a statewide moratorium.
Chatham County commissioners in Pittsboro voted unanimously to amend the county’s zoning ordinance to enable specific regulations for data centers. The county plans to hold a public hearing on proposed development standards on Nov. 30 as officials work to establish safeguards addressing environmental and infrastructure concerns.
The county adopted a temporary data center moratorium in February, but a Superior Court judge ruled in favor of Eco TIP West, whose proposed 750-megawatt facility near Moncure was already under development. Commissioners are continuing their regulatory work, while Chatham County residents and the Haw River Assembly are advocating for a statewide moratorium. The county board is also scheduled to discuss the lawsuit during a closed session.