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Draft ordinance proposes 500-foot residential buffer and 65 dBA operational noise standard
Summary
Planning staff proposed a 500-foot buffer between data centers and residential/agricultural zones (with reduced buffers for like industrial areas) and recommended a 65-decibel operational limit with testing every three years and complaint-triggered retesting.
Planning staff explained proposed buffer and noise measures for new data centers: a 500-foot buffer for residential and agricultural zones and a 100-foot plan for some industrial adjacencies (subject to planning-commission discretion and possible reductions with berms and visual screening). "We are proposing a 500 feet for residential and agricultural classifications," staff said, adding that berms, trees and visual screening could be required as part of site approvals.
On noise, staff proposed a baseline noise study and an operational limit of 65 dBA measured at specified locations, with post-construction monitoring every three years and the trigger for additional testing if neighbors complain. Residents asked about alternatives or lower night-time levels (for example, 60/50 day/night recommendations); staff said comments are being considered and that existing engineering-level controls in the zoning ordinance could be tightened.
