Haring Township planning commission approves data center zoning amendments
The Haring Township Planning Commission approved amendments to a proposed ordinance regulating data centers and digital mining facilities. The changes would require larger lots, wider setbacks, municipal water and sewer connections, and special land-use permits; the ordinance now moves to the Township Board of Trustees for consideration while a six-month data center construction moratorium remains in effect.
The Haring Township Planning Commission approved amendments to a proposed data center and digital mining facility ordinance, increasing minimum lot sizes from 20 to 100 acres, expanding setbacks from 250 to 500 feet and requiring municipal water and sewer service. The proposal would also limit accessory data centers, restrict facilities to one industrial zoning district and require a special land-use permit.
The ordinance is expected to be introduced to the Haring Township Board of Trustees, which is not expected to vote until December. Township Supervisor Bob Scarbrough said the regulations are intended to prepare for potential development, while residents raised concerns about noise, vibration, electrical-grid effects, water use and generator operation. A six-month moratorium approved in July remains in effect through the end of the year.