Boulder County Proposes Ban on Large Data Centers in Unincorporated Areas
Boulder County is considering land-use amendments that would prohibit data centers requiring more than 75 kilowatts of information technology energy demand in unincorporated areas. The proposals, which would also establish standards for smaller facilities, are scheduled for public hearings before the Boulder County Planning Commission.
Boulder County officials are proposing new Land Use Code and Comprehensive Plan provisions for data centers in unincorporated areas. The regulations would create a formal land-use classification and prohibit facilities exceeding 75 kilowatts of information technology energy demand, while allowing smaller facilities under certain conditions. County staff estimate that the threshold would use roughly as much electricity daily as 50 to 60 average Colorado homes.
The Boulder County Planning Commission is scheduled to review the amendments at public hearings on Oct. 21. The proposals would not apply to incorporated communities such as Longmont, Boulder or Louisville, which have their own land-use authority. The changes come amid broader regional debates over data center electricity demand, water consumption, land use and economic benefits.