VA lacks statewide data center rules; localities create their own.

VIRGINIA LOCALITIES CREATE DATA CENTER RULES ABSENT STATE LAW

Virginia is a global hub for data centers, bringing economic benefits but also stressing local energy and water resources.
Without statewide regulations, localities are developing their own rules to manage data center impacts.
Governor Youngkin vetoed a proposed state bill that would have mandated environmental impact assessments, citing local autonomy.
Local governments are implementing various ordinances to control data center development.
Examples include York County’s rules on energy/water capacity and sound studies, and Loudoun County ending “by-right” zoning.
Other localities like Chesapeake, Fairfax, and Henrico have enacted measures covering setbacks, buffers, and approval processes.
Local officials generally aim to have more control over data center projects rather than blocking them entirely.
A state study highlighted economic benefits but also significant challenges meeting the industry’s energy demands.

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Virginia Doesn’t Have Statewide Data Center Regulations. Localities are Making Their Own Rules.