REGULATING DATA CENTERS
Data centers have become an important issue for communities across the country, and Lower Gwynedd Township is no exception. These large facilities use significant amounts of land, electricity, and water, but our current zoning ordinance does not include rules that address them. That void creates the risk that a developer could challenge the zoning ordinance and set their own terms for a new data center. Township officials are not aware of any potential data center proposals for Lower Gwynedd, but to protect the community from that risk, the Board of Supervisors has declared the Township's current zoning ordinance invalid because it does not contain standards for data centers. This step starts a legal process called a curative amendment, which gives the Township up to 180 days to develop and adopt zoning regulations for data centers. During that time, the Township can pause new data center development while the new rules are being prepared.
It is important to understand that, unlike some other states, Pennsylvania law does not permit municipalities to ban legitimate land uses, including data centers, nor may municipalities adopt regulations that are so restrictive as to effectively exclude them. However, the Township can adopt reasonable zoning regulations that help protect our community. These regulations may include requiring a public review process, such as conditional use approval; identifying appropriate (or at least less impactful) locations where data centers may be allowed; setting operating standards that address issues such as noise, lighting, water use, and other potential impacts; and including performance standards designed to mitigate impacts on the community.
Community input is an important part of this process. There will be a public meeting on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 7 pm in the Township Building to discuss ideas for the new regulations. The Board of Supervisors encourages all residents to attend the meeting, virtually or in person, to learn more, share questions and concerns, and help shape an ordinance that protects our Township while complying with Pennsylvania law. More information about that meeting, including a Zoom link, will be shared closer to the date.
