The Physical Footprint of Artificial Intelligence
Zoning Practice — October 2025
By Charlie Nichols, AICP
Every time you ask ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude a question, you are tapping into a sprawling, power‑hungry network of machines. Somewhere, a data center’s processors are whirring, fans are spinning, and megawatts of electricity are flowing.
Artificial intelligence (AI) may feel virtual, but its footprint is intensely physical. Behind every chatbot interaction, predictive algorithm, or autonomous system lies a vast network of data centers, power generators, and electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure. As vast as it is now, the demand for computing power is growing at an exponential rate, and local zoning is on the front lines.
This issue of Zoning Practice explores the physical effects of AI deployment and highlights core considerations for local planning and zoning. It begins with a summary of the land use characteristics of the system of data centers that host and serve contemporary AI models before highlighting noteworthy regulatory approaches and areas of opportunity for zoning updates and land use decision-making processes.
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About the Author
Charlie Nichols, AICP
Charlie Nichols is the Director of Planning and Development for Linn County, one of the most populous and fastest growing areas in Iowa. Before coming to Linn County, he served as a Planner for the City of Cedar Rapids and as Planning Director for the City of Burlington (Iowa). In 2020 he oversaw an overhaul of the county’s zoning code for utility-scale renewable energy projects. In 2021 Linn County approved a 750 acre solar development, and in 2022 the county received an application for an approximately 1,000 acre solar development next to a decommissioned nuclear plant which is currently under review. Outside of work, he enjoys tending to his backyard chickens and working on home renovation projects with his wife and two children. Charlie holds an M.S. in Urban Planning from the University of Iowa.