Madison proposes framework for regulating data center development

Name: Madison proposes framework for regulating data center development
Uploaded: 2026-10-01T03:11:29.000Z
Duration: 2 min 11 s
Description: Madison is developing a framework for where and how data centers could be built, with facilities divided into small, medium and large categories. The proposal would cap buildings at 100,000 square feet, limit large centers to industrial areas, require noise mitigation and impose separation requirements, with a final vote expected in January.

News Clip2:11Channel 3000 / News 3 Now·Madison, Dane County, WI·10/1/2026

Madison is developing a framework for where and how data centers could be built, with facilities divided into small, medium and large categories. The proposal would cap buildings at 100,000 square feet, limit large centers to industrial areas, require noise mitigation and impose separation requirements, with a final vote expected in January.

zoninggovernmentannouncement

Gov: City of Madison, Madison Department of Planning and Economic Development, Madison Common Council

Madison officials are considering a data center framework that would classify facilities as small, medium or large and cap buildings at 100,000 square feet. Large data centers would be restricted to industrial areas, while medium and large facilities would need to be separated by at least 1,000 feet and include noise mitigation measures.

The city says the framework is based on months of research and is intended to balance potential jobs, tax revenue and reuse of vacant land against concerns about noise, nearby schools and residential property values. Madison plans to collect feedback from residents and businesses by the end of October, formally introduce a zoning code ordinance to the Common Council in November and seek a final vote in January.