Limerick Township Updates Data Center Zoning Ordinances
Limerick Township is revising its data center zoning ordinances to address technical standards for emissions, glare, and light pollution.
The Limerick Township Supervisors are developing technical updates to the municipality's zoning ordinances for data centers to address resident concerns and evolving technology. During a Tuesday night meeting, Khaled R. Hassan of Pennoni Associates presented proposed language focusing on industrial standards for vibrations, emission levels, glare, and light pollution.
Township Solicitor Rebecca Geiser explained that the adoption process is slow because the regulations are highly technical and require a formal review by the Montgomery County Planning Commission. Geiser stated, "It’s not a quick process, and this one is taking longer because it’s very technical and we want to make sure we get it right."
These new updates will not apply to existing proposals, such as Project Laurel or the project at the former Publicker distillery property, as those were submitted under the 2024 ordinance. Local residents have urged the board to prohibit non-disclosure agreements with developers, prevent gas-fired power plants from being classified as accessory uses, and include measurable enforcement levels. Township Manager Dan Kerr committed to posting the current working document on the township website for public review.
