Data center zoning change heads to Tehama County supervisors
The Tehama County Planning Commission recommended tightening data center zoning rules by removing by-right approval and requiring a conditional use permit. The proposal, driven by concerns about water, power, land use and environmental impacts, will go to the Tehama County Board of Supervisors for a vote.
About 10 Tehama County residents addressed the Planning Commission to oppose potential data center development, citing the county's water constraints, electricity needs, farmland and housing pressures. Some residents called for a moratorium while the county evaluates the impacts, although no data center applications have been filed.
The Planning Commission approved a recommendation to remove by-right approval for data centers and require conditional use permits, giving the county greater oversight of any future proposal. Supervisor Matt Hansen said the Board of Supervisors wants to assess potential effects on the environment, economy and community before development occurs. The recommendation will be considered by the Board, and if approved, would take effect after 30 days.