St. Louis advances new regulatory framework for data centers

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen has advanced Board Bill 49, a legislative effort to establish the city’s first comprehensive regulatory framework for data centers. The measure passed with a 13-0 vote and one abstention.

Currently, St. Louis lacks a dedicated zoning classification for data centers, often treating them as standard offices or warehouses. The new ordinance would categorize facilities into micro, standard, and major tiers based on size and electrical demand. Major facilities would face the strictest restrictions, including limitations to unrestricted zoning districts and requirements for additional city approval.

The legislation aims to balance potential technology investments with community concerns regarding high electricity and water consumption, noise, heat, air pollution, and general impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. Mayor Cara Spencer indicated her readiness to sign the legislation once procedural steps are completed. The bill is expected to return to the St. Louis Planning Commission on September 9, with a final vote by the Board of Aldermen anticipated for September 11.