Lexington Planning Commission takes up data center proposal
By Karyn Czar
July 30, 2026 at 7:27 AM EDT
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Planning Commission is expected to vote Thursday on new zoning rules that would effectively ban large data centers in Fayette County while placing strict limits on smaller ones.
The proposal follows months of community concerns about the industry's impact on electricity and water resources.
Under the plan, data centers larger than 50,000 square feet with one or more electrical substations would not be allowed anywhere in Fayette County.
Smaller facilities could be built only in warehouse and light industrial zones with a conditional use permit. Developers would have to address noise, water conservation, energy use and the project's impact on the local power grid.
The proposed rules stem from public opposition after DartPoints purchased the former Lexmark campus on West New Circle Road for a possible data center. The company has said it plans to renovate the existing building, not construct a large new facility.
The Urban County Council approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development in June while permanent regulations were developed.
After Thursday's hearing, set for 1:30 in the Government Center, the planning commission is expected to vote before sending the proposal to the Urban County Council for final approval.
Under the plan, data centers larger than 50,000 square feet with one or more electrical substations would not be allowed anywhere in Fayette County.
Smaller facilities could be built only in warehouse and light industrial zones with a conditional use permit. Developers would have to address noise, water conservation, energy use and the project's impact on the local power grid.
The proposed rules stem from public opposition after DartPoints purchased the former Lexmark campus on West New Circle Road for a possible data center. The company has said it plans to renovate the existing building, not construct a large new facility.
The Urban County Council approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development in June while permanent regulations were developed.
After Thursday's hearing, set for 1:30 in the Government Center, the planning commission is expected to vote before sending the proposal to the Urban County Council for final approval.