Jefferson County approves new zoning ordinance that includes data centers
The Jefferson County Commission in Georgia approved a technology zoning ordinance that establishes rules for potential data centers. Residents opposed the measure, saying it does not adequately protect the county’s rural character, while county officials cited potential economic benefits.
The Jefferson County Commission approved a technology zoning ordinance Wednesday that places data centers under a new regulatory framework. The county administrator said developers have contacted landowners, but no formal applications have been submitted and no land is currently zoned for the technology district.
The ordinance requires prospective data center projects to undergo rezoning and multiple public meetings. Residents criticized the measure as rushed and insufficiently protective of neighboring properties, while commissioners pointed to Jefferson County’s declining workforce and rising taxes as reasons to seek new sources of revenue.