Data Centers

The city's zoning ordinance defines data centers, where they are permitted, and the standards developments must meet. The code defines data centers, including definitions for hyperscale, medium, and micro data centers differentiated by their equipment use, square footage, or energy demand (§1.03.70a-d). Data centers are permitted as an accessory use in commercial districts (Table 1.02.201). Medium data centers are permitted in some commercial, industrial, and mixed-use districts, given they meet conditional requirements (§4.02.5.W). Micro data centers are allowed in some commercial, industrial, and mixed-used districts given they meet conditional requirements (§4.02.5.X). Hyperscale data centers are permitted in some industrial and mixed-use districts given they meet a stricter set of conditions that cover location, electricity demand, water use, stormwater discharge, generators, utility infrastructure, site plan, noise compliance, backup power, onsite power generation, equipment screening, battery storage, changes in conditions, cooling systems, lighting, and a proof of written notification to property owners within a five hundred feet radius (§4.02.7.D).