The Township has been monitoring developments related to data centers across the nation and, in particular, throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Recognizing the growing concerns surrounding data centers, the Board of Supervisors directed the Township Planning Commission to begin developing regulations designed to protect the Township and its residents.
In drafting the proposed ordinance, the Township utilized guidance from the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS), reviewed model ordinances from the Chester County and Montgomery County Planning Commissions and relied on the expertise of the Township’s legal counsel and professional consultants, all of whom have completed similar work in neighboring communities throughout Chester County and beyond. The Planning Commission reviewed and discussed the ordinance, provided comments and recommendations, and ultimately recommended approval of the proposed ordinance at its June meeting. The proposed ordinance was forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for consideration, and the Board will consider the ordinance at a public hearing scheduled during its July 27, 2026, meeting. Members of the public will have an opportunity to provide comments before any action is taken.
At this time, there are no proposed applications for a data center within the Township. The purpose of this ordinance is to proactively ensure that the Township is protected should a data center proposal be submitted in the future.
There is a great deal of information circulating about data centers, some of which is accurate and some of which is not. Municipalities cannot simply deny a data center application. Under Pennsylvania law, specifically the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, municipalities must provide for all legitimate land uses through their zoning ordinances. If a use is not specifically defined or regulated, it may be permitted in locations where municipalities have limited ability to impose reasonable standards and safeguards.
By adopting these regulations, the Township establishes clear requirements that any potential data center applicant must meet. These requirements address where data centers may be located, minimum lot size standards, setback requirements from residential neighborhoods and other sensitive areas, utility and infrastructure requirements, and the provision of public water and sewer service, among many other protections. The intent of these regulations is to ensure that, if a data center proposal is ever submitted, the Township has appropriate standards in place to protect neighboring properties and the community as a whole.
The Township recognizes that the issue of data centers is one about which many residents feel strongly. We also recognize the importance of implementing these regulations as soon as possible to help protect our community. The Township will continue to monitor developments involving data centers throughout the Commonwealth and the nation. If additional changes to the ordinance become necessary in the future, we will take appropriate action to ensure that the regulations continue to provide the highest level of protection for our community.
Residents interested in reviewing a draft of the ordinance may click the below link or schedule an appointment with Township Manager Neil D. Vaughn to review a copy at the Township Building. Questions regarding this process may be directed to the Township Manager by email at nvaughn@pocopson.org or by phone at 610-793-2151.
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