Huntingburg Planning Commission begins discussion on data center zoning regulations
The Huntingburg Planning Commission has initiated discussions on how to regulate large-scale data centers, as the city's current Unified Development Ordinance does not address them. City Planning Director Paul Lake proposed a framework for zoning, suggesting heavy industrial zones and special exception requirements for future data center projects. This proactive approach aims to establish clear criteria like setbacks, noise levels, and utility consumption before developers formally apply.
The Huntingburg Planning Commission recently convened to address the lack of regulations for large-scale data centers within the city's Unified Development Ordinance. City Planning Director Paul Lake led the discussion, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to prevent regulatory gaps should a major data center developer express interest.
Lake distinguished between the city's existing, smaller data centers, operated by local banks and manufacturers, and the larger commercial facilities that are becoming a subject of debate across Indiana and the nation. His presentation focused on two key questions: which zoning districts should accommodate data centers, and whether they should require a special exception rather than being permitted outright.
Lake recommended a framework that includes heavy industrial zoning for data centers, coupled with a special exception requirement. This approach would necessitate applicants to appear before the Board of Zoning Appeals and demonstrate compliance with specific criteria, such as setback distances, noise level thresholds (like 55 decibels), lighting plans, and utility consumption. He highlighted that other Indiana communities are considering 500-foot setbacks, though Marion County has adopted a 400-foot standard.