Hearing and vote on Lancaster city data center rules Wednesday night
A public hearing and vote are scheduled for Wednesday night on new zoning rules for data centers in Lancaster city, Pennsylvania. The proposed ordinance would require specific reports and public meetings for new data center developments in suburban manufacturing zones. However, these new rules will not apply to existing or already planned facilities along Greenfield Road and Harrisburg Pike.
Lancaster, PA – The Lancaster City Council is set to hold a public hearing and vote on a proposed amendment to the city’s zoning ordinance concerning data centers on Wednesday night. City solicitor Barry Handwerger spoke during a previous meeting regarding the new rules, which aim to increase oversight for future data center developments.
The draft ordinance would permit data centers only within the city’s suburban manufacturing zone and require approval from the zoning hearing board. Developers would need to submit comprehensive reports covering noise, energy use, water use, decommissioning plans, heat mitigation strategies, and emergency response protocols. Additionally, a public informational meeting with residents would be mandatory before seeking approval.
However, the new regulations will not apply to data centers currently planned or under construction, including the Lancaster AI Hub data center along Greenfield Road and other facilities on Harrisburg Pike. The City Council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. at city hall.