New state law allows impact assessments for high energy use facilities
A proposal to change James City County’s zoning code would add a formal submittal requirement for developers seeking legislative approval for data centers, also known as high energy use facilities, or HEUFs. The Policy Committee is reviewing the draft ordinance amendment, which would incorporate an existing county policy directly into the zoning ordinance rather than leaving it as separate guidance. County planning staff say the change is in response to a new state law approved by the General Assembly earlier this year.
Under the proposal, the county would add a new requirement to the zoning ordinance’s submittal rules, requiring applicants seeking legislative approval for a data center to submit information following the county’s Data Facilities Policy, adopted by the Board of Supervisors in November 2025, and any additional policies the planning director deems necessary. The policy previously adopted by the Board sets siting standards, including 1,000-foot setbacks from homes, 250-foot setbacks from sensitive natural, historic and recreational areas, vegetated buffers, and a 55-decibel noise cap or the existing ambient level, whichever is higher. It also addresses water use, renewable energy and permitting. Planning staff noted that the new requirement would not be eligible for waiver.
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