Data centers could soon be banned from the City of Fresno, even though they are not currently permitted under city code.
Councilman Nick Richardson is proposing a 10-year ban on all data center developments by banning the planning director from allowing them.
The big picture: Richardson is proposing to direct city staff to write a text amendment to city code that clearly defines and prohibits data centers in Fresno.
Data centers would be defined as specialized facilities designed to house specific IT infrastructure needed to train, deploy and deliver artificial intelligence services.
The ban would last for 10 years and would become permanent unless the city council takes action at the end of that period.
State of play: Any proposed use in a zoning district must be listed as a permitted use under city code. Data centers are currently not allowed as a permitted use in any zone district in the city’s development code.
Data centers could be built in the city, but it would take the Planning Director to specifically authorize them as a permitted use when proposed.
What we’re watching: If Richardson’s proposal is approved by the council on Thursday, it would require review by the Airport Land Use Commission and the Planning Commission before returning to the city council for final approval.