What Warren County’s City-County Planning Commission data center regulations require
The Warren County City-County Planning Commission has recommended a new ordinance to regulate future data center developments, creating specific zoning rules and requirements for utilities, water usage, and environmental impact. Initial readings have been approved by the Bowling Green City Commission and Warren County Fiscal Court, with final adoption pending by June 17. This ordinance sets a framework for evaluating future proposals rather than approving a specific project.
On March 19, the Warren County City-County Planning Commission recommended a comprehensive ordinance to local legislative bodies, outlining new regulations for data center operations within city limits. The proposed ordinance, which does not approve any specific project, aims to establish clear standards for future data center developments in Bowling Green, Smiths Grove, Oakland, Plum Springs, and Woodburn. Local government bodies have until June 17 to act on the ordinance before it is automatically authorized. The Bowling Green City Commission approved a first reading on June 2, followed by the Warren County Fiscal Court on June 11.
The ordinance introduces a new "Data Center" land-use category in Bowling Green's zoning code, establishing specific requirements for future applicants. Key provisions include strict setback requirements for buildings and exhaust stacks from residential and agricultural areas. Developers must submit documentation proving that existing utility infrastructure can support proposed facilities' demands for electricity, water, wastewater, and stormwater, with applicants responsible for any necessary utility improvements.
Environmental and operational standards are also central to the new rules. The ordinance mandates closed-loop cooling systems for liquid-cooled data center equipment to minimize water usage, requiring a detailed water management plan. It also addresses the visual impact of large facilities through appearance standards, regulates backup generator operation and emissions, and requires developers to mitigate noise, glare, and heat impacts on neighboring properties. Furthermore, a decommissioning plan, including financial assurance for cleanup costs, is required before construction begins, ensuring that properties are restored if operations cease.