[SeeGov Enhanced] Durham weighs tighter data center rules, with size limits still unsettled

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Southpoint AccessWes Platt

Durham leaders voiced support Wednesday for putting new data centers through public review, while leaving unresolved how large the facilities could be and whether smaller operations serving hospitals and research institutions should follow a shorter approval process.

Members of the Joint City-County Planning Committee asked planners to return in December with draft regulations and options, including potentially different size limits for the city and county. No new data center regulations were adopted at the Nov. 4 meeting.

The discussion builds on a model ordinance released by Central Pines Regional Council, which offers communities a starting point for addressing noise, utility demands, buffers, and other effects of data center development.

For neighbors, the questions extend beyond the size of a building: How close could a facility be to homes? What would keep its equipment running during a power outage? And when would residents have a chance to weigh in?