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Last Update: 09/15/2026 at 6:34 PM EST
Hawaii County AI Data Center Zoning
Coverage from Hawaiʻi Public Radio, Hawaii Tribune-Herald, and others
What's Going On
Hawaii County is reconsidering how its zoning code treats industrial-scale AI data centers.
Bill 170 has advanced but remains unresolved after commissioners deferred action, with proposed thresholds and public review for larger facilities amid disputes over power, water, noise, wastewater, utility costs, and potential jobs and tax revenue.
Additional Articles
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The Windward Planning Commission in Hawaii County deferred Bill 170 on Thursday in Hilo, delaying consideration of zoning restrictions or a ban on AI data centers.
Hawaii County's Windward Planning Commission deferred action on Bill 170 until October while reviewing zoning controls for industrial-scale AI data centers on Hawaii island.
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Hawai'i County Council advanced Bill 170 on Tuesday to clarify industrial-scale data centers are not permitted uses under county code.