Lynchburg City Council votes to tighten data center zoning rules, adding new oversight
The Lynchburg City Council unanimously approved an update to its data center zoning ordinance, changing certain districts from by-right to conditional use permits. This gives council members greater oversight for future data center proposals, requiring them to include energy and water usage details and allowing for public hearings. The change is intended to protect the community and manage impacts, though it is not a ban on data centers.
The Lynchburg City Council voted 7-0 to update the city’s data center zoning ordinance, changing certain districts from by-right permits to conditional use permits. This amendment grants council members the authority to review future data center proposals individually, a significant shift from previous rules where city staff could approve applications without council input.
City Planner Rachel Frischeisen stated that the added review steps are designed to mitigate impacts on surrounding land uses and ensure business districts maintain their intended commercial character. Under the revised ordinance, all new data center proposals must now include details on anticipated energy consumption and transmission routes, as well as incorporate public hearings to allow residents to provide feedback.
At-Large Council Member Martin Misjuns clarified that the vote does not constitute a ban on data centers in Lynchburg. However, Ward IV Council Member Chris Faraldi emphasized the necessity of increased oversight, citing the substantial resources, particularly water and energy, required by these facilities. The city has not yet received any formal data center proposals under the new framework.