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Supervisors table data‑center zoning changes after extended public comment; board seeks further review and possible conditional‑use approach
Summary
After an extended public hearing and supervisor discussion on noise, water use, setbacks and permitting, the board tabled proposed amendments to the county zoning code to define and regulate data centers and asked staff to return with revisions; staff recommended a new public hearing if substantive changes are made.
The Frederick County Board of Supervisors on March 12 held a lengthy public hearing and discussion on a proposed amendment to Chapter 165 of the county code to define and regulate data centers, then voted to table the ordinance and return with revisions and a future public hearing.
County staff presented a package of proposed changes that would: add a definition for data centers; impose performance and siting standards (including a proposed 200‑foot buffer from residential zoning and a Category C full screen buffer); require pre‑approval water‑use estimates to be reviewed by Frederick Water; limit generator cycling/testing to Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; require noise studies before certificate of occupancy and at 24 months; and distinguish power…
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