Joint Zoning Council Moves Fast on Data Center Rules

June 4, 2026 — The Newtown Area Joint Zoning Council (JZC) focused heavily on a proposed data center ordinance, JMZO 2026-03, during its June 4 meeting. The main goal: move quickly to prevent a regulatory loophole before any major data center application is filed. This issue was first brought up at the March 25, 2026, Newtown BOS meeting.

Why the Rush?

The Council appears concerned that without a specific data center ordinance in place, developers could try to fit large server operations into broader existing categories, such as “financial establishments.”

That matters because data centers can place major demands on local infrastructure, especially electricity, water, groundwater resources, and emergency services.

Key Takeaways

• Data center rules are being fast-tracked to avoid a “regulatory vacuum.” Because state law prevents local governments from banning these projects or issuing moratoriums, experts are urging towns to adopt protective zoning ordinances before developers submit applications.
• JMZO 2026-03 would create specific zoning rules for data centers.
• Potential loopholes are a concern, especially if server farms try to classify themselves as other types of businesses. Read, for example, “Upper Merion Residents Oppose Massive Data Center Proposal,” where developers contended that data centers have “the same general character” as warehouses or laboratories!

• Water usage and groundwater protection were major discussion points. For more on that read “The Environmental Footprint of Data Centers” and “The Growing Environmental Impact of AI Data Centers’ Energy Demands”.
• Fire safety planning would likely require review by local emergency officials.
• More refinements may come later after the ordinance is initially adopted.

Listen to this “Deep Dive” podcast for an informative review of the data center ordinance discussion:

Where Would Data Centers Be Allowed?

The discussion focused on limiting data centers to certain industrial zoning districts, including Light Industrial and Restricted Industrial areas.

The Council discussed a possible minimum acreage threshold of 45 acres and reviewed several large parcels, including one 148-acre parcel (see map below), along with other sites of approximately 104 acres, 160 acres, and 133 acres.

Water and Environmental Concerns

Water was described as a serious issue, especially because many data centers require large amounts of water for cooling. The Council discussed a possible $5,000 per well impact fee and the need for pre- and post-construction studies to monitor groundwater impacts.

Fire Safety and Emergency Planning

The draft ordinance also includes fire safety requirements. Council members discussed giving local fire marshals or fire companies authority to review and sign off on plans to ensure that emergency responders have the proper equipment and capability to handle incidents at these facilities.

Proposed Ordinance Adoption Timeline

Bottom Line: The Joint Zoning Council is choosing speed over perfection. The immediate priority is to get data center rules on the books before a developer can exploit the absence of specific regulations. More detailed revisions may follow after the initial ordinance is adopted.

Further Reading Regarding Data Centers

• “Does #NewtownPA Township Have an Adequate Data Center Zoning Ordinance?”
• “#NewtownPA Area Townships Racing to Regulate Data Centers Before They Arrive”
• “Data Centers Outrun PA Zoning Laws!”
• “The Data Center Dilemma”
• “The Growing Environmental Impact of AI Data Centers’ Energy Demands”
• “The Environmental Footprint of Data Centers”
• “West Rockhill Data Center Revised Standards”
• “Upper Merion Residents Oppose Massive Data Center Proposal”
• “PA Townships Waging Zoning War Against Data Centers”

Other Items Discussed

• JMZO 2026-02: Proposed rezoning of portions of the RI and RIA districts in Wrightstown Township.
• Sign ordinance revisions: Ongoing work on sign types and updates from local Planning Commission chairs.
• Financial reports: Review of the Treasurer’s Report and Upper Makefield Auditor’s Report.

The next JZC meeting is scheduled for July 2, 2026, at the Wrightstown Township Building, with an ordinance work session at 5:00 PM followed by the regular meeting at 7:00 PM.