New Rules Target Data Centers, Pot Facilities

The Brentwood Board of Aldermen has passed new ordinances to regulate data center development within the city. During its April 20 meeting, the board approved measures classifying data centers as a conditional use in Brentwood's light industrial district, a move intended to establish a legal framework for oversight before significant development occurs. Under the new regulations, any proposed data center projects will necessitate a conditional use permit, requiring public hearings before both the planning and zoning commission and the Board of Aldermen for final approval. The ordinance specifically defines data centers, includes crypto processing and Bitcoin mining as potential uses, and explicitly prohibits housing these facilities in temporary structures like storage containers. Brentwood Planning and Development Director Whitney Kelly noted that these proactive steps aim to ensure the city has appropriate controls in place for data center facilities. The approved ordinances also included similar requirements for marijuana cultivation, processing, and dispensary facilities, alongside approvals for other local businesses.