St. Louis advances new rules for data centers
St. Louis is advancing new comprehensive regulations for data centers that would restrict where facilities can operate and set standards for electricity and water use, noise, and neighborhood impacts. Board Bill 49 passed the Board of Aldermen and now moves to the city Planning Commission for review before a final vote. The regulations would replace a system where data centers were classified as offices or warehouses, introducing specific categories and requirements.
The City of St. Louis is moving forward with its first comprehensive regulations for data centers, with Board Bill 49 advancing through the Board of Aldermen on a 13-0 vote. The legislation aims to restrict data center locations and establish standards for electricity and water consumption, noise levels, and their effects on surrounding communities.
Mayor Cara Spencer described the bill as the culmination of a year-long effort to address the complex issue of regulating an industry that brings investment but also significant demands on infrastructure. The St. Louis NAACP has advocated for stronger safeguards, citing concerns about utility costs, environmental impacts on Black communities, and a desire for equitable economic opportunities from AI and other technologies. NAACP President Adolphus M. Pruitt II emphasized the importance of "Equity in AI."
The proposed rules introduce three data center categories: micro, standard, and major, based on size and electricity usage. Major data centers would only be permitted in unrestricted zoning districts with special city approval and would require setbacks of at least 600 feet from residential areas, schools, parks, and transit facilities. Standard and major facilities would also face renewable energy mandates, starting at 25% and increasing to 100% within ten years. Water-intensive evaporative cooling systems would be prohibited, and larger facilities would need agreements with the St. Louis Water Division.
Additionally, major data centers would be required to hold community meetings, notify local stakeholders, and provide independent reports on environmental effects, tax revenue, and job creation. Developers would also need to sign binding agreements with the city to address community impacts, with the risk of approval revocation for violations. These measures largely address concerns raised by the NAACP. Conversely, supporters of data center development, such as Stephen Westbrooks, President and CEO of the St. Louis Development Corp., have cautioned that overly restrictive regulations could deter investment and job creation in St. Louis. The bill also includes provisions for AI-related data centers, requiring disclosure of their intended uses.