Clark County to discuss possible regulations for future data centers

Clark County commissioners are scheduled to review potential new regulations for data center development within unincorporated areas of the county, a move prompted by growing public concern and recent project approvals. Commissioner Tick Segerblom initiated the discussion, requesting it after the commission, acting as the county's zoning board, approved a new data center for Switch, the Las Vegas-based technology infrastructure company. Despite pushback from residents and environmental groups, Switch received approval to expand its southwest valley megacomplex.

The upcoming meeting will focus on "the application process and approval criteria for data centers," with the possibility of drafting a new ordinance at a later date. Commissioner Segerblom emphasized the need to address the "hot topic" of data centers, particularly regarding water and energy consumption and their impact on quality of life, concerns that were voiced by residents at the June 17 zoning board meeting. He acknowledged Switch as a "gold standard" due to its use of 100% renewable energy and non-evaporative cooling systems.

The article also notes similar challenges faced by other Nevada municipalities. Boulder City's Planning Commission recommended rejection of an 88.5-acre data center proposed by Skylar Capital Management, while the City of Henderson introduced an ordinance for a potential 180-day moratorium on data center applications. Separately, the Reno City Council approved a temporary halt on AI data center approvals for approximately a year to explore future regulations.