Cheatham County considers defining 'data center' in zoning code as residents warn about power and footprint

At a Cheatham County Commission meeting, staff presented proposed amendments to the zoning resolution that would add a definition of “data center” and classify data centers among the county’s "extensive impact" facilities.

Tracy O'Neil, a District 4 resident who said she worked on the ordinance, told the commission that defining data centers in the zoning code is a necessary first step but not sufficient. “Defining data centers in the zoning code is just not enough,” O'Neil said. She noted concerns about large data-center operations and their power consumption, referencing earlier local debates involving the Tennessee Valley Authority and citing examples elsewhere where zoning loopholes were exploited.

Building department staff described the draft definition as a facility that houses computer systems and related infrastructure, typically including backup power, cooling systems, battery storage, substations and security systems. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about how the definition would operate in practice and whether additional restrictions or permit processes would be required.

No final vote on the zoning text was recorded at the meeting; staff said amendments would proceed through the planning commission and back to the full commission for action. Several public speakers urged stronger, follow-up measures to limit where large industrial data centers can locate so farmland and green space are preserved.