Newtown Township supervisors approved an ordinance establishing requirements for data centers in the light industrial zoning district, citing the need to protect residents if a development proposal is submitted. Township officials said about 12 acres in the western portion of the township are zoned for the use, with buildings limited to 40% of the land. Residents argued the ordinance does not go far enough to address groundwater impacts, noise, vibration, light pollution and backup generators. A Sierra Club of Southeastern Pennsylvania analysis reportedly scored the ordinance 21 out of 48 across 24 categories. Supervisors defended the measure’s safeguards, including requirements for mapping nearby wells and evaluating water and noise impacts, while acknowledging the regulations could be revised as guidance evolves. Officials said adopting the ordinance provides protections that would not exist without specific data center rules.
Source: Daily Times; 10/27/2026