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Athens officials consider zoning rules to allow data centers and battery storage with specific permits
Summary
City Planner Ronda Cockerham presented proposed ordinance changes to define “data centers” and “battery energy storage systems,” recommending both be allowed in Industrial districts only with Specific Use Permits and detailed operational safeguards including decommissioning bonds, environmental monitoring and size limits.
City Planner Ronda Cockerham told the Athens City Council and Planning & Zoning Commission during a joint work session on Feb. 18 that staff proposes adding definitions and supplemental regulations for “data centers” and “battery energy storage systems” to Chapter 22 of the city’s zoning code. The proposal would allow both uses in Industrial zoning districts only, subject to approval through a Specific Use Permit (SUP).
The proposal, as presented, would prohibit data centers and BESS from residential and mixed‑use zoning districts, floodplains and wetlands, and from any site where required buffer or separation standards cannot be met. Cockerham outlined operational and permit requirements the city would seek in an SUP application, including setbacks and screening, noise mitigation, signage that meets NFPA safety‑sign standards, complete inventories of installed equipment and proof of general liability insurance.
Staff also recommended requiring a decommissioning plan and financial security such as a bond, plus an environmental monitoring program. The draft includes a proposed size cap of 500 square feet for the initial permitting threshold; staff noted concerns about water use and environmental safety related to these technologies.
The discussion took place in a joint work session—intended for policy development—so no formal zoning changes or votes were taken. Planning & Zoning Chairman Brian Schutt and council members questioned screening, enforcement and how the city would verify equipment inventories and insurance over time. Member Jim Kerlin disclosed that his employer had previously been involved with battery energy storage systems; the Council declared there was no conflict of interest.
Next steps were not recorded as a formal action in the work session; the item remains in the development stage for future ordinance drafting and potential public hearings.
