MORRISTOWN, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – Morristown officials are weighing new zoning regulations that would limit where data centers can operate within the city as communities across East Tennessee grapple with concerns over noise, energy consumption and future growth.
The Morristown City Council is scheduled to discuss and potentially vote on an ordinance Tuesday that would establish a series of restrictions on facilities used for cryptocurrency mining, artificial intelligence operations and large-scale data processing.
According to city documents, the proposal is intended to ensure local regulations keep pace with rapidly evolving technology.
“As technology continues to shift in capacity and increased ability, there is the ever need to continuously review and update the zoning ordinance and potential uses,” the ordinance states. “This is especially the case in the rise in data centers such as cryptocurrency mining and artificial intelligence centers and what regulations the city should place on such.”
Proposed Restrictions
Under recommendations from city zoning officials, data centers would only be permitted within Heavy Industrial District zones and would be required to meet several conditions, including:
- A minimum distance of 500 feet from any residential property or residential zoning district.
- A minimum distance of 500 feet from any school or occupied government building.
- All equipment associated with the operation must be located inside an enclosed building.
The ordinance also establishes definitions for data centers, focusing on facilities that house computer systems and equipment used for processing information, cryptocurrency mining, artificial intelligence computing and server hosting.
Growing Concerns About Data Centers
The proposal comes as data centers continue to expand throughout Tennessee and across the country. Such facilities have drawn attention in some communities because of concerns over noise generated by cooling systems and computer equipment, as well as significant electricity and water consumption.
Supporters argue data centers can bring investment and technological infrastructure to communities, while critics have called for stronger regulations to address potential impacts on nearby residents.
Second Reading Before Council
The ordinance is currently on second reading, bringing it one step closer to adoption if approved by city leaders.
Morristown City Council is scheduled to meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, where members will discuss the proposed regulations and determine whether to move forward with the new zoning standards.
If approved, Morristown would join a growing number of East Tennessee communities adopting specific rules governing the location and operation of data centers.
