Augusta planning staff unveils draft ordinance to regulate future data centers

Planning and Development staff presented a proposed ordinance meant to regulate future data centers in Augusta. The staff representative opened by saying, "We are here to discuss the data center ordinance," and described a framework that would classify data centers within industrial zoning or create a new, separate zoning type to control location and design.

The draft would require a pre-application interdepartmental review that brings fire, emergency management, utilities, public health, engineering and planning together before an applicant files for a special-exception approval. Staff said the process includes mailed notification to property owners within a proposed 300-foot radius, a public hearing before the Planning Commission and a final decision by the Augusta Commission, plus annual compliance certification for permitted sites. The proposal also calls for design standards — fencing, screening, low-reflective building materials — and explicit operational plans such as emergency access and 24-hour local contacts.

Staff emphasized that the ordinance is aimed at new developments only and is not intended to retroactively regulate existing data centers. "We are proposing an industrial classification," the presenter said, noting the document draws on model definitions from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and ordinances from other jurisdictions. The next community meeting is scheduled for the 31st, and all written comments are being accepted through the Planning and Development website.

The planning staff will deliver compiled public comments and the draft ordinance recommendations to the governing board, which will make any final decisions about whether to adopt a change that could include stricter limits or, theoretically, a prohibition if commissioners so choose.