Indianapolis officials delay vote on data center zoning regulations
Indianapolis development officials have delayed a key vote on proposed data center zoning regulations by one month, moving it from June 3 to July 1. The delay is to allow more time for review of public feedback and potential adjustments to the proposal, which environmentalists have criticized as insufficient. The new regulations, if passed, would not affect already approved data centers and address concerns regarding noise, sight lines, water, and electricity.
Indianapolis development officials have requested a one-month delay for a crucial vote on new data center zoning regulations, pushing the decision from June 3 to July 1. This postponement, aimed at allowing additional time to review public feedback and refine the proposal, means any new zoning law for data centers in the city will likely not take effect until at least August. Environmental groups have expressed strong criticism, labeling the initial draft as "too weak."
The proposed ordinance, unveiled by the city's Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD) on April 21, outlines rules and restrictions for data centers within Indianapolis city limits. It specifies that new regulations would not apply to centers already approved or with filed applications. Key provisions in the draft include a minimum 200-foot separation between data center campuses and protected districts, a maximum noise level of 65 decibels at property lines, and requirements for developers to submit comprehensive water management plans, electricity reports, and noise mitigation strategies.
The Metropolitan Development Commission will first vote on the proposal, considering staff recommendations and public comments, before the Indianapolis City-County Council delivers a final decision. Under the proposed rules, data centers would operate within special use districts, allowing for more targeted permitting processes. A DMD spokesperson did not confirm if further public feedback opportunities would be provided.