Establish Enforcement Mechanisms

The local government must build out an enforcement mechanism to ensure that data centers abide by noise regulations, including a complaint process for residents and regular monitoring. Some cities have recommended that a specially trained public works unit enforce the new noise ordinance. Penalties should involve non-nominal fines and civil penalties, including removal of the certificate of occupancy.

Note: Cities may have to amend their zoning code to increase the acceptable fines, and may need to ascertain the legality of occupancy removal.

Weak example

In Prince William County, Virginia, the penalty for repeated violations of a noise ordinance tops out at $5,000. This is not a sufficient penalty for a billion-dollar company.