Bill
HB 511
Virginia legislation permits data centers in industrial zones statewide, streamlining development but raising local control and environmental infrastructure concerns.
HB 511 addresses zoning regulations for data centers in Virginia by allowing them to be permitted in industrial zones. The bill was incorporated into HB 153, meaning its provisions were merged into broader legislation dealing with counties, cities, and towns. This change streamlines the permitting process for data center development across the state's jurisdictions.
Data centers are increasingly critical infrastructure for cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital services, and Virginia has positioned itself as a major hub for this industry. Clarifying zoning rules reduces regulatory barriers and uncertainty that can delay or prevent facility construction, potentially affecting economic development, job creation, and the state's competitiveness in the tech sector. However, data centers also consume significant electricity and water, raising environmental and infrastructure concerns for local communities.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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