Dayton moves toward restrictions on large-scale data centers
Dayton city leaders are moving forward with proposed zoning code changes to restrict large-scale data centers, following an April moratorium. A public hearing was held where officials discussed amendments that would define and regulate data center facilities. Residents raised concerns about noise, energy use, and water demand.
Dayton city leaders are advancing proposed zoning code changes aimed at restricting large-scale data centers within the city. City commissioners held a public hearing on June 17 to discuss these amendments, which also cover gas stations and car washes. City Planner Jeff Green explained that the proposal seeks to create specific regulations for data centers, which currently do not exist, and would define them as facilities housing infrastructure for technological applications, including cryptocurrency mining and server farms. The changes would not affect typical business IT operations or in-house server rooms.
This regulatory effort comes after an April moratorium that temporarily halted approvals for data center-related zoning and building applications in Dayton. Existing, smaller facilities, such as those operated by Lumen, would be grandfathered under the new proposal. While supporters highlight potential construction and electrical jobs, opponents, including residents Kevin Keller and Talib Petaway, voiced concerns during the hearing about noise pollution, high energy consumption, and significant water demand. The Dayton City Plan Board recommended these amendments in April following earlier work sessions, and commissioners are expected to vote on the proposed changes at a future meeting.