News Detail

Franklin County Adopts Amendment Outlining Rules For Data Center Development

Planning

May 21, 2026

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – On Wednesday, the Franklin County Commissioners approved an amendment to the county’s subdivision and land development ordinance (SALDO) that sets standards and regulations for the construction, installation and operation of data centers in Franklin County. In doing so, the commissioners took a proactive step in safeguarding the county’s residents, farmland, natural resources and communities before any potential projects are proposed.

“As commissioners, we have a responsibility to protect our residents’ wellbeing and overall quality of life as well as safeguard our communities, natural resources and agricultural land,” said Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dean Horst. “By acting now, we are establishing expectations before data center development occurs and helping our municipal leaders prepare for such development instead of reacting to it once it’s here.”

Under Pennsylvania law, land use decisions are primarily controlled at the municipal level. Each municipality must account and plan for every legally permitted land use; bans and moratoriums on specific types of development are prohibited. However, municipalities may adopt and enforce their own policies on how to best regulate land use and development through zoning ordinances and SALDOs. Currently 21 of Franklin County’s 22 municipalities have SALDOs, and 12 have adopted zoning ordinances.

Franklin County’s amended SALDO strengthens existing land development regulations and serves as a model framework that municipalities could adopt; it does not override existing municipal zoning authority. The SALDO also provides safeguards to mitigate potential negative impacts of future data center development on local communities and existing infrastructure while still supporting the commissioners’ goals of smart growth and conscientious economic development. It does not approve any specific data center project, offer incentives to developers or allow for land use that is currently illegal.

The commissioners released the proposed amendment for public review and comment in mid-February. Dozens of residents provided feedback and after further consideration, the county issued a revised version of the amendment in early April. The commissioners ultimately adopted that revised amendment on Wednesday.

“We appreciate everyone who took the time to review the proposed amendment and voice their concerns about the impact data centers and this ordinance could have on our county, both now and into the future,” said Horst. “Public input like that is critical in helping us make decisions and policies that best reflect the needs and wants of our residents.”

For more information on Franklin County’s approach to data center development, visit www.franklincountypa.gov/data-center-ordinance.