San Antonio adopts stricter approval process for new data centers
The San Antonio City Council approved new regulations requiring future data centers to obtain special use authorization and council approval before construction. The rules also impose landscaping, setback, noise, parking and access requirements, and prohibit development in the Edwards Recharge Zone District.
The San Antonio City Council voted 9-2 to adopt stricter regulations for future data centers. Developers must obtain a special use authorization permit and satisfy requirements involving landscaping, setbacks, noise barriers, parking, site access and distance from a UNESCO World Heritage site. Data centers will also be prohibited in the Edwards Recharge Zone District.
The measure followed extensive public debate over the industry’s economic benefits and potential effects on communities, property values, public health and the environment. Supporters, including Council Member Ric Galvan and environmental advocates, said the rules would give residents a meaningful role in development decisions, while opponents such as Council Members Marc Whyte and Misty Spears warned the requirements could drive projects outside the city. A stricter proposal from Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones and an alternative plan from Whyte failed to gain full council support.