Lyon County to Host Data Center Ordinance Workshop
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 27, 2026
Yerington, Nevada – Lyon County will host a public workshop on Monday, Aug. 3, at 9 a.m. to review and discuss a proposed Data Center Ordinance that would establish development standards for future data center projects within the county.
The workshop is part of the Board of County Commissioners' ongoing effort to modernize the County's Development Code and ensure local regulations reflect current industry practices and the unique needs of Lyon County.
Among its key provisions, the draft ordinance:
- Prohibits water-consuming cooling systems unless they utilize reclaimed or treated effluent under limited circumstances, helping conserve Lyon County's valuable water resources.
- Encourages on-site renewable energy generation or renewable power purchase agreements to offset electricity consumption and eliminate potential impacts to existing utility customers.
- Includes strict noise and lighting standards designed to minimize impacts on neighboring properties and surrounding communities.
- Requires setbacks, landscaping, fencing, and screening to improve compatibility with adjacent land uses and reduce visual impacts.
- Requires applicants to submit emergency response plans developed in coordination with local fire agencies and Lyon County Emergency Management.
- Requires comprehensive traffic, utility, water, wastewater, electrical, and fiscal impact analyses so potential community impacts can be identified and addressed before development occurs.
- Establishes decommissioning and financial assurance requirements to ensure sites are safely restored at the end of their operational life.
These requirements are intended to ensure future data center proposals are evaluated through a comprehensive planning process that protects public health and safety, conserves natural resources, minimizes impacts on existing residents and infrastructure, and provides clear expectations for future development.
To further inform the ordinance development process, Lyon County Commissioners and Community Development Director Gavin Henderson participated in the National Association of Counties (NACo) Rural Energy Academy, a national peer-learning initiative that brings together local government leaders to share best practices, discuss emerging energy and technology trends, and develop policies that balance economic opportunity with community priorities.
The proposed ordinance builds upon previous actions by the Lyon County Board of County Commissioners, including the adoption of updated renewable energy regulations that established zoning requirements and development standards for renewable energy facilities. Together, these efforts reflect the County's commitment to maintaining modern land use regulations that address rapidly evolving technologies and industries.
The August 3 workshop will provide an opportunity for the Board of County Commissioners to review the proposed ordinance, receive public input, and discuss potential revisions before any future consideration for adoption.
Workshop Information
Date: Monday, Aug. 3
Time: 9 a.m.
Location: Lyon County Administrative Complex – 27 S. Main Street, Yerington, NV 89447
The community can also participate virtually using the information below:
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83368686463?pwd=ZlVGaWFOT3pGUjJPWWV0VmZRQ0N5dz09
Meeting ID: 833 6868 6463 / Passcode: 896135
Mobile: 1-253-215-8782 / 1-346-248-7799
The draft ordinance is available as part of the Board's meeting materials for public review.
The complete agenda and back up materials are posted online at www.lyon-county.org/Agendacenter. Residents can view recordings of Board of County Commission meetings on the Lyon County YouTube Channel.
