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Franklin County hears wide public reaction to proposed data‑center regulations; staff proposes setbacks, noise limits and utility verification
Summary
Planning staff outlined proposed amendments to regulate data centers — definitions, 400‑ and 1,000‑foot setbacks, 800‑acre cap, 100‑foot height limit, noise limits (60/50 dB) and required sound studies — and the commission heard hours of public comment both supporting jobs and opposing water use, noise, EMF and wildlife impacts.
Franklin County planning staff presented proposed zoning amendments on Jan. 20 to regulate data centers, and the Planning and Zoning Commission opened an extended public‑comment period that produced sharply divided views.
Staff summary: Planning staff (Nicole) proposed definitions for “data center” and “accessory data center,” to permit data centers in G and A zoning districts subject to Article 10 regulations. Key proposed requirements included a 400‑foot setback from all property lines for buildings and associated equipment, a 1,000‑foot setback from property lines adjacent to highly residential districts, a maximum site footprint of 800 acres and a maximum structure height of 100 feet (including antennas). Screening and lighting would follow Article 13 standards; outdoor lighting would be downcast and mounted no more than 20 feet above finished grade. Security fencing would be required (ornamental wrought iron or similar, 6–12 feet…
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