Arlington City Council Considers New Development Standards for Data Centers

Arlington City Council recently reviewed a report outlining potential data center development within the city, prompting discussions about updating its unified development code. Currently, the city lacks specific permitting and zoning classifications for data centers, leading staff to consider proposing amendments. These changes would introduce standards for location, design, and operations, addressing concerns like lot sizing, building setbacks, noise, and water usage, including requirements for closed-loop systems.

While Mayor Jim Ross noted minimal developer interest in large-scale facilities, the city anticipates a higher likelihood of smaller "edge" data centers, which require less power and land (1-2 acres), or "enterprise" facilities, typically occupying 5-10 acres for single-company use. Hyperscale data centers, like those operated by Meta or Google, are deemed improbable due to Arlington's nearly 95% built-out status and limited industrial land. However, existing industrial buildings could be repurposed for smaller data center operations. Co-located facilities, housing shared computing equipment and requiring 15-20 acres, present a moderate development probability. The proposed code amendments aim to provide clear guidance for developers and ensure compatible economic growth.