LFUCC passes 2 ordinances regulating zoning and language surrounding data centers

LFUCC passes 2 ordinances regulating zoning and language surrounding data centers

News ClipLEX 18 News·Lexington, Fayette County, KY·10/23/2026

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council passed two ordinances regulating data centers in Fayette County. The measures establish a separate zoning category and set recommendations for facility size, energy and water use, and setbacks, while a moratorium on new data center permits and related approvals remains in effect through October 2027.

zoninggovernmentelectricitywatermoratorium
Gov: Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council, Lexington-Fayette Planning Commission

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council approved two data center zoning ordinances on second reading. One creates a distinct zoning category for data centers and addresses facility size, energy and water consumption, and setbacks from locations including schools.

A second ordinance revises the language governing future data center development. The council had previously extended a moratorium on data center permits, development plans and zoning changes through October 2027. The ordinances follow earlier consideration by the planning commission after a heavily attended public hearing.