Bill > HB2026

This bill requires local governments in Virginia to review and update their zoning ordinances related to data centers, with specific requirements aimed at managing their potential impacts. The bill defines a data center according to an existing tax code definition and mandates that localities classify data centers as industrial uses when they are updating their comprehensive plans. Localities must conduct several key evaluations, including assessing the proximity of data center zones to residential areas, reviewing zoning requirements like setbacks and building heights to mitigate negative impacts, identifying optimal locations for data center development, and implementing measures to reduce noise pollution. Specifically, localities must consider limiting data center locations, require sound modeling, and ensure that low-frequency noise does not reach residential areas. Data centers seeking zoning approvals will need to commit to mitigating potential negative effects on nearby residential neighborhoods. Importantly, these requirements only apply to localities that already have data centers mentioned in their zoning ordinances and are in the process of revising those ordinances to more comprehensively address data center development. The goal is to create a more structured and considerate approach to integrating data centers into local land use planning.

Government Affairs

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2026