New Warren County data center rules add decommissioning, larger setbacks
The Warren County Commission in Missouri unanimously finalized new regulations for data centers. The rules require decommissioning permits, annual emergency response plan updates, larger property and residential setbacks, and more detailed natural-resource screening plans.
The Warren County Commission finalized its data center regulations after a public hearing where residents proposed changes. The approved order adds a decommissioning permit requirement, requires annual updates to emergency operations and response plans, and mandates disclosure of hazardous materials stored on-site.
The rules increase setbacks from property lines to 200 feet and from nearby residences to 300 feet. They also require detailed natural-resource preservation plans covering landscaping, screening, berms, fencing and other visual buffers. Presiding Commissioner Joe Gildehaus said the regulations were not created in response to a specific planned project, and commissioners approved the order unanimously.