Data center zoning amendment proposed for 20 Luzerne County-covered municipalities

Luzerne County is proposing a zoning ordinance amendment to regulate data centers in 20 municipalities that rely on county zoning. The amendment defines data centers, specifies zones where they can be located, and mandates special exception approval from the Zoning Hearing Board. It sets standards for setbacks, landscape buffers, noise levels, water usage, power connections, and aesthetics. The amendment also encourages "community incentive packages" to offset impacts. The proposal aims to be comprehensive and comply with regulations that prohibit banning data centers entirely. The amendment will first be considered by the County Planning Commission before going to the County Council for approval.