Smyth County committee advances draft data center ordinance, schedules June 25 public hearing

Assistant County Administrator for Development Clegg Williams presented the Joint Ordinance committee’s draft data centers ordinance and the committee recommended the board concur and schedule a joint public hearing on June 25, 2026.

The proposed ordinance differentiates large data centers (over 40,000 square feet) and small data centers, establishes Special Use Permit paths in some districts and by-right allowances in certain industrial zones, and proposes site standards addressing open space, a 60-foot setback (aligned with building code), a 60-foot height limit, sound limited to 55 dB(A) at the sending property line, lighting restrictions that require applicants to minimize and mitigate off-site effects, and a security bond or cleanup requirement that would require site cleanup within 365 days of abandonment.

Supervisors debated details. Royal Oak District Supervisor Courtney Widener urged that small-scale data centers not be allowed by right in industrial zones and recommended all facilities apply by Special Use Permit; Widener also abstained later on some unrelated votes. Rye Valley District Supervisor Jason Parris asked about the ordinance’s economic benefit given likely limited job creation; staff said current zoning does not set employment numbers as a condition.

The committee voted to recommend concurrence with the draft ordinance and scheduling a public hearing so the community and Planning Commission can comment. The Board’s concurrence and the June 25 joint public hearing will allow public testimony and additional refinements before any final adoption vote.