How one Midlands city is proposing to limit data centers and regulate short-term rentals

Cayce, South Carolina, is moving to update its zoning and land-development rules, proposing a unified ordinance that would introduce specific restrictions on data center development within the city. The city's development service director, Luke Godbold, stated that these updates are a proactive measure to address data centers as a "hot topic" and ensure responsible development standards.

The proposed regulations would mandate that data centers be located at least 2,000 feet away from residential properties, churches, schools, and parks, and a minimum of 200 feet from all property lines. Additionally, facilities would be capped at 80,000 square feet, and mechanical equipment would require screening by an 8-foot-high opaque fence or wall. Restrictions on barbed wire and chain-link fences are also part of the draft.

City staff, with consultants, have been working on the ordinance for over a year, conducting research and holding work sessions with the Planning Commission, along with several town hall meetings. Cayce Mayor Elise Partin confirmed that the City Council is scheduled for a briefing on the document the week of September 14, with a public hearing before the Planning Commission set for September 21. The Planning Commission must recommend the draft before it can advance to the City Council for a final vote.

While other municipalities in the state are considering moratoriums, Cayce's approach is described as less drastic, focusing instead on defining specific parameters for data center siting and size.