Rifle City Council unanimously approves data center regulations
Rifle City Council unanimously approved regulations governing future data centers and bulk consumer resource centers after several months of discussion. The rules require developers to fund studies and testing and establish a 1,500-foot setback from residences, schools and other sensitive locations.
The Rifle City Council unanimously approved new regulations for future data centers and bulk consumer resource centers following months of meetings and a public hearing. The regulations are intended to address community and infrastructure concerns without imposing a temporary moratorium on development.
Under the new code, applicants must pay for required studies, surveys and testing before submitting projects. The rules also require a 1,500-foot setback from residential buildings, schools and other sensitive receptors, substantially limiting potential development sites. City Attorney Jim Neu said the regulations made a moratorium unnecessary, while Planning Director Zach Higgins said city research and existing state and federal rules address residents’ concerns.