Data Center Zoning Definition
At a glance
- What: Third reading of a proposed addition to Zoning Bylaw 10.1 defining a data center (hyperscale, enterprise, co-location, edge, server farms, modular systems and crypto mining where data processing is the principal use). No amendments offered; no final vote yet.
- Where it stands: Discussed by the Town Council on October 19, 2026; see the meeting log below.
Sources
State context
State-level rules, including Executive Order 658 and a statewide list of local moratoriums and bylaws, are on Massachusetts Data Center Policy.
Log
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2026-10-19 - Town Council - Third reading of a proposed addition to Zoning Bylaw 10.1 defining a data center (hyperscale, enterprise, co-location, edge, server farms, modular systems and crypto mining where data processing is the principal use). No amendments offered; no final vote yet.
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2026-10-15 - Joint Planning & Development Subcommittee and Town Council - Members read a draft data center bylaw from Charlton (a definition, amended use regulations, data centers not allowed in any district) and debated whether to keep "any use not listed is prohibited" in Section 501 or allow a special permit if the granting authority finds public convenience and welfare served. No decision.
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2026-11-02 - Town Council - Zoning bylaw amendment defining "Data Center" is on the agenda (agenda only; outcome not yet recorded).