Orange County reviews draft Technology Zoning District to guide data center development

County staff on Thursday walked the Board of Supervisors through a draft Technology Zoning District intended to govern data centers and other high‑intensity technology uses, with board members asking for clearer rules on permitted uses, setbacks and environmental protections.

Michelle, staff member, summarized the draft’s purpose, saying the “T District supports Orange County’s economic development and diversification objectives by encouraging investment in technology sectors, while preserving the County’s rural character and quality of life, and ensuring that such development remains targeted and context sensitive.” The board spent more than an hour weighing how narrowly to define permitted uses and what protections to require for nearby homes, farms and natural resources.

Why it matters: Data centers and associated facilities can bring large buildings, intensive utility infrastructure and, in some designs, substantial water and generator use. Supervisors said they want a clear, upfront set of standards so property owners and applicants know what Orange County will and will not allow.

Most important provisions and debate

- Permitted uses and exclusions: Staff proposed permitting a limited set of technology uses — notably data centers, technology research and development facilities and technology‑related higher education uses — and adding definitions for the new categories. Several…