Montgomery Co. passes data center zoning rules amid resident pushback
The Montgomery County Commission passed data center zoning rules limiting facility size and noise. Residents, including Nat Dagger, said the rules are insufficient and urged the county to adopt a moratorium or stricter restrictions, while an attorney warned that broad bans could lead to lawsuits from developers.
The Montgomery County Commission approved a basic zoning framework for future data centers that includes restrictions on facility size and noise. Commissioners also added a requirement to study setbacks from nearby homes, an issue that will require additional approvals and public hearings.
Residents who spoke during public comment, including Nat Dagger, argued that the county should impose a moratorium or outright ban while the community studies the long-term effects of data centers. Attorney David Rabin said Tennessee law and the state’s business-friendly policies limit local governments’ ability to prohibit development, warning that moratoriums and bans could invite lawsuits from developers.
Dagger said residents will continue appearing before the commission to seek stricter rules and greater protections for surrounding communities. The report noted that broader changes may require action by the Tennessee state legislature or Congress.