Radnor introduces ordinance to regulate data centers
Radnor Township commissioners introduced a proposed ordinance that would regulate data center locations, size, setbacks, operations and ongoing compliance. The ordinance would limit data centers to the township’s two planned laboratory and office districts, with additional technical studies required before approval.
Radnor Township commissioners have introduced a draft ordinance to establish rules for data centers, even though officials say no developers are currently discussing a project in the township. The proposal would restrict facilities to planned laboratory and office districts, limit their size, require setbacks and screening, and mandate studies addressing utilities, noise, cooling, emergency response and other impacts.
Zoning officer Megan Donovin said the township is pursuing regulation to preserve local control and avoid a potential legal challenge over an outright ban. The draft will be revised and reviewed by the planning commission before returning to the commissioners for advertising and adoption. Other Delaware County municipalities, including Newtown, Concord, Trainer and Lower Chichester townships, are also considering or adopting data center regulations.