Chesapeake Eyes Data Center Curbs: New Rules Proposed

The Chesapeake Planning Commission has unanimously recommended new zoning ordinances designed to increase oversight of future data center projects. These proposed changes would mandate that data center developments be approved on a case-by-case basis, requiring a conditional use permit. Currently, such projects can be built as-by-right under certain zoning designations. The revised ordinances would restrict new data centers to industrial zoning districts and the Fentress Airfield Overlay District. This move comes after considerable public input, with over 20 residents expressing concerns regarding environmental impacts, noise, and strain on resources. Residents advocated for more time to amend the proposals, emphasizing the need for stronger protections against adverse effects on the community and environment. They also called for periodic reviews of these zoning policies. The proposed changes will now proceed to the City Council for final approval. Leaders across the region have been actively discussing similar preparations as demand for data centers, fueled by cloud computing and AI, continues to rise. While some residents pushed for an outright ban, most urged for strengthened regulations, including cumulative impact analysis, private well protection, and decommissioning requirements, to ensure development balances economic benefits with long-term community well-being. A few supporters, like David Ropp, chairman of the Chesapeake Alliance, praised the planning staff's efforts and suggested the ordinance could become one of Virginia's most balanced. However, his suggestion for by-right development in specific districts was not incorporated.