West Hazleton Borough adopts new data center ordinance
West Hazleton Borough Council unanimously adopted an ordinance regulating future data center development. The rules limit data centers to industrial zones and require plans addressing water and electricity usage to protect residents from significant impacts.
West Hazleton Borough Council unanimously approved a new data center ordinance after more than a year of drafting and consultation with the Luzerne County Zoning Office. The ordinance restricts data center construction to industrial zones and gives the borough authority to regulate proposals within its zoning district.
The rules also require developers to submit water and electricity usage plans demonstrating that operations will not significantly affect residents. Council President Henry Kreisl said the borough sought outside advice because council members lacked direct experience with data centers, and the final ordinance was intended to provide strong protections for the community.