Data center definitions on DeKalb board agenda for Oct. 13
The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to consider an ordinance defining and classifying data centers in the county’s zoning code. The proposal would regulate facilities based on size, energy and water use, noise and backup power, while residents oppose new development and the county remains under a temporary data center moratorium.
The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to consider Commissioner LaDena Bolton’s proposed ordinance on Oct. 13. The measure would establish data center definitions and size tiers, require classification of new facilities and expansions, set limits related to water use and noise, and ban facilities larger than 1 million square feet. Commissioners could vote on the item or postpone it.
The proposal follows more than a year of public opposition over electricity demand, utility costs, water consumption, noise and pollution. DeKalb County’s temporary pause on new data center development runs through March 30, 2027, while officials develop broader land-use rules. The county previously rejected proposed zoning regulations and a $1.6 billion data center in Ellenwood, and it is facing a lawsuit from Shadowbox Studios and a real estate affiliate over the moratorium. A separate proposal would require a third-party health and environmental study.