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Planning commission backs moratorium on data centers through mid‑2027
Summary
The commission voted to recommend a county moratorium on siting and permitting of data centers until June 30, 2027 (or until new county regulations are adopted), citing the need for updated placement and operations rules.
The Planning Commission voted to recommend that the Knox County Commission adopt a moratorium on data centers through June 30, 2027 or until new regulations for placement and operation are adopted. The motion instructed the County Commission to pause approvals while staff and elected officials draft updated rules for siting and operations.
Commissioner Barger made the motion after reading the referral language and commissioners approved it on a voice vote. Chair Huber said the commission was forwarding the recommendation for county deliberation; the action is advisory because land‑use controls for data centers at the county level require County Commission action.
Supporters of the moratorium said the recent increase in data center proposals warrants a pause to ensure the zoning framework and operational standards (energy, water use, and traffic) are adequate. The commission did not attach additional conditions to the referral itself; the County Commission and staff will define the scope and timeline for regulatory changes.
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