Arapahoe County commissioners back drafting data-center rules

Five Arapahoe County commissioners supported directing staff on Oct. 19 to prepare proposed land-development-code changes that could allow data centers as permitted uses or uses requiring special review, the meeting recording shows. The commissioners did not adopt code amendments or select specific standards.

The county is considering rules because its code does not specifically address standalone data centers. Staff says the Land Development Code neither defines data centers nor lists them as a permitted use, and treats standalone facilities as not permitted in unincorporated Arapahoe County under its provision for unlisted uses. The county’s board summary describes the code and staff-reported public inquiries prompting the review.

The Oct. 19 discussion followed a Sept. 22 study session, when commissioners requested more information about potential noise, air-quality, energy and water impacts, as well as approaches in other jurisdictions. The staff presentation for the follow-up session outlined possible regulatory approaches.

Commissioners discussed noise, setbacks, water and energy use, facility size and community benefits as topics for possible future rules. They did not adopt any of them as requirements. Commissioners also discussed public comment and possible town halls, but did not set a date for staff to return or adopt a public-input plan.