Metropolitan Development Commission
Indianapolis body that regulates zoning, including data-centre siting.
Last refreshed: 7 July 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic
Why did Indianapolis choose zoning rules over a data-centre moratorium?
Timeline for Metropolitan Development Commission
Voted 10-3 to recommend a data-centre moratorium through December 2027
Data Centres: Boom and Backlash: Indianapolis backs freezing new data centresVoted 5-3 to advance new data-centre zoning rules
Data Centres: Boom and Backlash: A third of Indiana counties resistWhat is the Indianapolis Metropolitan Development Commission?
Did Indianapolis ban data centres?
What are the new data centre rules in Indianapolis?
Background
The Metropolitan Development Commission is the appointed body overseeing zoning and land-use decisions for Indianapolis and Marion County, Indiana. Its recommendations go to the City-County Council for final approval.
On 1 July 2026 the Commission voted 5-3 to advance a special zoning ordinance for data centres rather than recommend a moratorium, setting requirements including setbacks of up to 400 feet from schools and other protected districts, a 65-decibel noise limit, decommissioning plans and annual reporting on energy and water use. The measure moves to the City-County Council, with a public hearing expected 13 July and a possible final vote 10 August 2026.
