Virginia: Fauquier County approves zoning changes

Virginia's Fauquier County has approved zoning changes for Vint Hill relating to the "planned commercial and industrial district" that will limit data centers. These zoning rules will require any buildings or assemblages of buildings of more than 50,000 sq ft (4,645 sqm) to apply for and receive a special exemption permit from the Board of Supervisors.

Supervisor Ike Broaddus voted in favor of the change, noting that it is “vitally important to ensure that we stay one step ahead of this rapidly evolving data center industry.” Broaddus added that the CyrusOne project already underway is planning data centers that are only 45 feet in height, which is less than many other facilities, and that OVH has "proven itself to be a quiet neighbor."

Vint Hill Conservancy president Chris Zumot said: "This is an abomination that will only deter businesses from coming to Vint Hill.” Zumot argued that the association already reviews the compatibility of data center developments but that this additional hurdle will prevent applications from being made.