Rocky Top moves to regulate AI data centers with new zoning laws
The City of Rocky Top has passed a zoning ordinance on its first reading to regulate future AI data centers. This aims to restrict data center locations to industrial zones, addressing concerns about electricity, water consumption, and noise to keep them away from homes and businesses.
Rocky Top, Tennessee, is taking proactive steps to regulate the future development of Artificial Intelligence data centers within its city limits. The City Council has passed a zoning ordinance on its first reading, aiming to prevent large-scale data facilities from being built near residential areas or schools.
The Mayor of Rocky Top stated the initiative is to get ahead of the curve amidst a surge in AI data centers nationally. The ordinance seeks to establish clear guidelines, ensuring that any potential data centers would only be permitted in designated industrial zones. This move addresses community concerns regarding the significant electricity and water consumption of these facilities, as well as the noise generated by their cooling systems.
Before this discussion, there were no specific regulations for data centers, meaning they could theoretically locate anywhere. If the ordinance passes its second reading, it will implement standards to safeguard the community from the potential negative impacts of unregulated data center construction. Reporter Kayla Practice spoke with Rocky Top's Mayor and community members about the ordinance's implications.