Roanoke City Council Adopts Data Center Zoning Restrictions Amid Drought

The Roanoke City Council has unanimously approved new zoning restrictions for data centers and data processing facilities, establishing them as a new use in the city's zoning code. Under the new rules, data centers are only allowed in industrial planned unit development districts and require a special exception, which necessitates review and public hearings by both the city's planning commission and the council. The regulations also include requirements for setbacks, operating hours, landscaping, building design, and noise.

Councilman Peter Volosin expressed his disapproval of data centers, advocating for industries that generate more jobs, while Councilman Terry McGuire voiced concerns about the rapid expansion and environmental impact of data centers in Virginia. McGuire supported the council's decision to implement what he called "common sense protections." Concurrently, the Western Virginia Water Authority has introduced voluntary water conservation measures across its service area due to ongoing drought conditions and extreme heat. Carvins Cove reservoir is currently 14.6 feet below full capacity, prompting the authority to activate supplementary wells and utilize a new water line to conserve water resources. This marks the first time in the authority's 22-year history that it has implemented its drought contingency plan, though mandatory restrictions would only be considered if water levels drop significantly further.