Noise limits, distance requirements, and more: Coffee County to vote on data center limits next month
The Coffee County Planning Commission is recommending new data center regulations to the County Commission, covering noise limits, distance requirements, and a water feasibility study. These proposed rules, developed after a June moratorium, will be voted on next month after a public hearing.
The Coffee County Planning Commission is set to recommend a comprehensive set of regulations for data centers to the Coffee County Commission at its upcoming October meeting. These proposed rules, which include specific noise limits, distance requirements from residential areas and sensitive sites, and height limitations, follow a moratorium enacted in June to allow for the development of such guidelines.
If approved, data centers would be required to maintain a 500-foot buffer from homes, places of worship, parks, and schools. Noise levels would be capped at 67 dBA during daytime hours (Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.) and 57 dBA at night and on weekends, measured at the property line. Coffee County Mayor Dennis Hunt noted that these regulations establish a "baseline" that can be adjusted in the future as technology evolves. The proposed amendments also mandate a water feasibility study and emergency plans approved by local first responders. A public hearing is scheduled for October 13th to allow residents to comment on the changes before the County Commission votes.