Data centers

Learn about changes to zoning rules related to data centers in Minneapolis.

Overview

The City is updating its zoning rules for data centers. Data centers hold computers that store and process information. These computers help the internet work.

Partly because of new AI technology, data centers are growing fast across the country. Companies want to build them in cities, suburbs, and rural areas. Many other communities are also updating their rules to manage the impact of data centers.

Earlier this year, the City Council approved a temporary ordinance. It pauses new data center proposals in most of the city. This pause gives the City time to create new standards.

Goals of the code change

We want to make sure Minneapolis has strong rules for data centers so we can limit any negative effects on the community. We also want to look at ways to reuse empty office and commercial buildings.

People have told us they’re worried about things like energy use, water use, and noise. Cities in Minnesota can’t make their own rules for building components or systems because the state building code controls those. This means the City cannot address some issues in the way people might expect.

With new zoning rules, the City plans to:

  • Define what a data center is 
  • Limit how big data centers can be
  • Decide where data centers are allowed 
  • Require data centers to report their planned energy and water use
  • Reduce noise impacts

If a business or institution has servers that only serve that same property, those systems will usually not be counted as a data center.

Relevant sections of the zoning code

These chapters of the zoning code may change as part of the amendment:

  • Chapter 535, Overlay Districts
  • Chapter 540, Built Form Overlay Districts
  • Chapter 545, Use Regulations
  • Chapter 550, Development Standards
  • Chapter 565, Definitions

Recommendations

The City Council’s Zoning and Planning Committee will review:

  • The proposed zoning rules for data centers
  • The Planning Commission’s recommendations

The committee will then make a recommendation to the full City Council.

See the recommendations

See a map of proposed zoning districts for data centers

Research

In our report, you’ll find information on:

  • How cities across the country make rules for data centers
  • How the rules work in big cities
  • How data centers affect local taxes, the environment, and the power grid

Read the report

Adoption process

Changes to the zoning code must go through a rigorous review process. 

Learn more about the process

Meetings

Media requests

For all media inquiries, contact the City of Minneapolis Communications Department.
Contact Communications

Contact us

Planning and Zoning

Community Planning & Economic Development (CPED)

Email Minneapolis 311

Phone

612-673-3000

Address

Public Service Building
505 Fourth Ave. S., Room 320
Minneapolis, MN 55415