Collier County to Consider Updating Outdated Data Center Zoning Regulations
The Collier County Board of Commissioners discovered that existing data center zoning regulations are based on outdated 1987 codes. Due to increasing resident concerns about future projects and their impact on resources, the county plans to initiate a review to update these regulations. Commissioners are expected to vote on this zoning review process on July 28.
The Collier County Board of Commissioners is considering updating its data center zoning regulations, which date back to 1987. During a July 14 meeting, officials learned that current zoning is based on an outdated Standard Industrial Classification code, insufficient to address modern data center scale and demands. Mike Bosi, Collier County director of planning and development, explained that staff would develop new regulations. Board Chair Dan Kowal emphasized the need to "pump the brakes" and gain control over future data center development.
Residents have voiced significant concerns regarding the environmental impact, water and electricity demands, and generator noise associated with large-scale data centers. An informal citizens group, backed by dozens of supporters, petitioned the commissioners to pause future data center applications and plans a rally on July 18. Commissioners are expected to vote on July 28 to authorize a "zoning in progress" project, allowing staff to study the issue and develop updated recommendations.