Ozark considers new rules to regulate future data center development
The city of Ozark, Missouri, is proactively considering new code updates to regulate future data center development, despite not having received any applications yet. The proposed ordinance would define different types of data centers and establish standards for land use, water use, noise, and vibration. The city's Planning and Zoning Commission is expected to review the plan in late August.
The city of Ozark, Missouri, is moving to proactively update its municipal code to regulate the development of future data centers. Community Development Director Randall Whitman stated that the city has not yet received any applications for data center projects, describing the proposed changes as a preventative measure.
The proposed ordinance aims to classify data centers into three categories, ranging from small server closets to large facilities exceeding 10,000 square feet. Developers seeking permits would be required to adhere to specific standards concerning land use, water consumption, and noise and vibration levels.
Jeff Garrison, chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission, expressed support for the draft ordinance, highlighting its potential to better position the city in regulating data center construction. The commission is scheduled to review the plan on August 24.
The initiative comes as nearby municipalities have already taken action regarding data centers. The city of Springfield, Missouri, enacted a moratorium on new data centers in June after being approached by a developer, and Webster County adopted a similar moratorium following the groundbreaking of a small-scale data center near Marshfield.