Loudoun Data Center Locations, Standards To Be Set In 16-Month Process

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — After Loudoun County's zoning ordinance update has been completed, a process to revise standards and locations for data centers will be considered in a 16-month process by the Board of Supervisors.

Loudoun County is home to the world's highest concentration of data centers known as "Data Center Alley," located in Ashburn. But as Loudoun County receives more applications for data centers in areas where more space is available, Loudoun Now reported that officials have pushed for an update on data center development standards. The process began in June 2023 but was deferred until the zoning ordinance process was complete.

On Tuesday, the board will consider approving a project plan related to data center standards and locations. The project plan approval would start an estimated 16-month process leading to board action on a comprehensive plan amendment and zoning ordinance amendment in spring or summer 2025.

The Board of Supervisors' adopted zoning ordinance strengthened standards for data centers near residential properties and changed the by-right allowance to a special exception approval for data centers in the office park and planned development-research and development park zoning districts. Data centers are permitted as a by-right use in the industrial park, general industry and mineral resource-heavy industry zoning districts.

The new process will consider setting urban, suburban, transition and joint land management policy areas where data center uses would be appropriate. It will also set data center standards on land use, compatibility, aesthetics, infrastructure, and natural and environmental resources.

If the Board of Supervisors approves the project plan on Tuesday, the next step would be a study period to develop base maps and develop draft policies. County staff would return to a future board meeting to provide a check-in during the summer, and a town hall and public comment would be planned for fall 2024. A public hearing for the Planning Commission could happen in winter 2025, and Board of Supervisors public hearing and action could follow in spring 2025.