Lexington Planning Commission Reviews Revised Data Center Regulations Amidst Rapid Growth Concerns
Lexington, Kentucky's General Government and Planning Commission recently reviewed a revised set of regulations concerning data centers. This review is part of an ongoing process that will ultimately be decided by the city council. City staff informed the commission that existing rules are insufficient to address the rapid expansion of data centers, particularly with the advent of AI and its projected demand. The original proposal from city staff was deemed inadequate by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Planning Commission in July, leading them to draft their own revisions. The revised proposal, presented by Planning Principal Daniel Crum, introduces a new definition for minor data centers, mandates more studies and plans, and includes additional spacing requirements. Specifically, the July revisions cap minor data centers at 40,000 square feet, down from 50,000 square feet, and increase the required buffer near sensitive areas from 1,000 feet to 1,500 feet. It also lowers the allowed noise level near re... 
