Larimer County seeks to ban hyperscale data centers, evaluate others
Larimer County is proposing regulations that would effectively ban hyperscale data centers by limiting facilities to 30 megawatts and allowing them only in designated industrial zones. The draft rules also require renewable power, prohibit evaporative cooling, and impose environmental, noise, water and air-quality reviews while the county’s six-month moratorium remains in effect.
Larimer County is considering land-use rules that would prohibit hyperscale data centers and subject smaller facilities to a special review process. The draft would limit data centers to the county’s Industrial Heavy and Industrial Light zones, cap power use at 30 megawatts, require 80% renewable electricity and prohibit evaporative cooling systems. Developers would also need to provide plans addressing air quality, noise, power availability, water supply and wastewater management.
The rules would apply to unincorporated Larimer County, while Fort Collins, Loveland and Berthoud would establish their own policies. County staff say smaller data centers could support emergency dispatch, utilities, communications and other critical services, although a county survey found that 94% of respondents opposed allowing any data centers. Public feedback is scheduled through Nov. 24, followed by planning commission consideration on Dec. 16 and a county commissioners’ vote at a Jan. 11 land-use hearing.