Campbell County requires special use permits for data centers after unanimous board vote

The Campbell County Board of Supervisors in Virginia unanimously approved a measure requiring special use permits for all future data center developments. This decision, prompted by ongoing public input and concerns, eliminates the previous "by-right" use, which allowed data centers to be built without a specific permit if the land was zoned for it. The vote means that community members and board members will now have a formal say in the approval process for any new data center proposals. Several residents spoke during the public hearing, emphasizing the need for more public input and control over such an "intrusive industry." Concerns were raised about the impact on the community, with calls for more parameters on construction. Rustburg District Supervisor John Hardie thanked citizens for their continued engagement, stating that the board represents and works for the community. While the new rules will apply to future projects, two existing data center developments in the county will be grandfathered in and allowed to proceed under the previous regulations.