🏢 What is this ordinance about?
Coweta County is considering new regulations for data centers. These rules aim to balance economic development with community protection. Cryptocurrency mining facilities are not included in this ordinance.
📍 Where Can Data Centers Be Built?
- In Light Industrial (LM) and Industrial (M) zones
- On at least 25 acres of land
- Located on or near major roads or within industrial parks
🏗️ Development & Design Standards
- Building height: Up to 60 feet
- Buffers: 300 feet from nearby homes, with natural vegetation
- Design: Must use quality materials and architectural features to reduce visual impact
- Fencing: Required, but no barbed or razor wire if visible from public areas
🔊 Noise & Lighting Protections
- Strict noise limits, especially at night
- Generator testing only allowed on weekdays during business hours
- Outdoor lighting must be shielded to protect the night sky and nearby homes
🌿 Environmental & Community Safeguards
- Developers must submit an environmental impact study
- A community meeting is required before rezoning, with mailed notices and public signage
- A waste management plan and annual report must be made public
- Open-loop cooling systems are prohibited to protect water resources
🚧 Traffic & Infrastructure
- A Construction Traffic Management Plan is required
- Developers must prove that water, sewer, and electricity are available or outline upgrades
- Onsite power generation is not allowed unless for emergencies
🚒 Emergency Response
- Data center operators must coordinate with local emergency services
- Operators must fund annual training and equipment for emergency responders
📢 Stay Informed
This ordinance is still in draft form. Public input is encouraged. For updates, meeting notices, or to view the full draft, stay tuned to our website or contact the Community Development Department.
