Washington County outlines proposed data center regulations, sets 2027 timeline
Washington County officials outlined proposed data center regulations, including 1,000-foot setbacks, noise limits, energy plans, water conservation measures and environmental studies. The county is reviewing the framework through 2027 while its existing ban on data centers in unincorporated areas remains in place.
Washington County officials in Maryland presented a preliminary framework for regulating data centers, with proposed setbacks of at least 1,000 feet from homes, noise limits, energy-use requirements and environmental protections. The recommendations also include water recycling and drought plans, alternative cooling methods, possible restrictions on natural-gas turbines and lithium-ion battery storage, and potential impact fees for infrastructure.
County Administrator Michelle Gordon said the county has not approved any data center construction and that its existing ban applies to unincorporated areas, not municipalities such as Hagerstown. The Planning Commission is expected to hold workshops and develop a draft zoning amendment in 2027 before sending recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners for public hearings and a possible vote; no action was taken at the meeting.