anchorage just zoned AI out

The Anchorage Assembly voted 10 to 2 to adopt an ordinance that defines data centers in the municipal zoning code for the first time, a measure sponsored by Assembly members Anna Brawley and Daniel Volland. The rules come before any data center has been built in the city.

Under the ordinance, data centers can only be sited in commercial and industrial zones. Developers must include landscaping buffers and enclosed power equipment to reduce noise and limit the warehouse-style appearance of the facilities.

Every proposed data center project will now go through a public review process. Local utilities must also weigh in on whether they can handle the additional power demand before a project is approved.

Brawley and Volland framed the ordinance as a proactive step, saying it sets ground rules ahead of expected demand for AI-driven data processing facilities. Other cities around the country have dealt with noise complaints, energy strain and neighborhood pushback after data centers moved in without clear regulations already in place. Anchorage adopted its rules before facing that situation.