Suffolk prohibits data centers citywide
Suffolk City Council approved an indefinite, citywide prohibition on data centers, making them prohibited in every zoning district. The ordinance closes gaps in the city’s development rules but allows the council to reconsider the ban in the future under stricter regulations.
Suffolk City Council approved an ordinance on Oct. 21 prohibiting data centers as a principal use in every city zoning district. The measure creates a specific definition for data centers, including their power and cooling infrastructure, and prevents developers from seeking approval under warehouse, distribution or other industrial classifications.
The prohibition has no expiration date and is not a temporary moratorium, although the council could change the development ordinance later. Planning and Community Development Director Kevin Wyne said no data center applications are currently pending in Suffolk. Council members, including Mayor Michael Duman and Council Member John Rector, said the restriction gives the city time to study potential regulations addressing community, infrastructure and environmental impacts. The Planning Commission had recommended approval 8-0 on Sept. 15.