Saginaw approves new rules for future data centers as moratorium nears end
The Saginaw City Council has approved a new ordinance that establishes regulations for future data center developments, including rules for water and energy use, noise, and residential buffers. This decision comes as the city's data center moratorium is set to expire at the end of 2026. Developers will be required to hold neighborhood meetings and adhere to new setback and noise limits.
The Saginaw City Council unanimously approved a new ordinance on Monday night, establishing a comprehensive set of regulations for any future data center development within the city. This move precedes the expiration of Saginaw's current data center moratorium, which is scheduled to end at the close of 2026.
The newly adopted rules stipulate that data centers will only be permitted as special land uses within designated light industrial and general industrial districts. Key provisions of the ordinance require developers to provide detailed information on anticipated water and energy consumption, wastewater management, and noise levels. Additionally, data centers and their associated equipment must maintain a minimum distance of 500 feet from residential homes and districts, with noise limits near residential areas capped at 55 decibels. Developers are also mandated to conduct at least two neighborhood meetings before proceeding with any project. The new ordinance is expected to be formally incorporated into Saginaw's code by October 9.