Shamong Township Committee Introduces Ordinance to Classify Data Centers as Non-Permitted Use
Shamong Township in New Jersey has introduced an ordinance to designate data centers as a non-permitted use in all zones, effectively making it very difficult for them to be built. Officials cited the lack of necessary infrastructure like power, water, and sewer as reasons, along with a desire to proactively prevent future development arguments. The township solicitor clarified that while not a technical 'ban,' it serves the same purpose.
The Shamong Township Committee introduced an ordinance on July 7 to classify data centers as a non-permitted use across all zones within the township. Mayor Michael Di Croce stated that this proactive measure is due to the township's current lack of adequate infrastructure, including power sources, water, and sewer systems, necessary to support data center development. Township Solicitor Doug Heinold explained that while data centers are not currently a recognized or permitted use under existing zoning laws, the ordinance aims to clarify this position and prevent future disputes by explicitly declaring them a non-permitted use.
Hemlin acknowledged the rapid evolution of the data center industry and suggested that the township might reconsider for "less intrusive, more modest uses" during future master plan developments. Resident Denise Ashworth expressed concerns about "AI data centers" and questioned if a "non-permitted use" truly constituted a ban. Heinold responded that, in practical terms, the ordinance acts as a ban, making it an extremely difficult undertaking for any potential data center developer to gain approval.