Virginia, October 26, 2025
Virginia’s tech sector is rapidly expanding with the proliferation of data centers, driven by low electricity costs and proximity to Washington, D.C. Recent reports highlight the state’s positioning as a global leader in technology infrastructure. However, this growth raises important discussions about sustainability and land use, prompting stakeholders to address the environmental impact of such developments.
Richmond, Virginia — Virginia’s rapid expansion of data centers has encountered significant regulatory hurdles as local governments implement stricter regulations and community opposition grows.
Henrico County Implements Stricter Data Center Regulations
In January 2025, Henrico County introduced a provisional use permit (PUP) requirement for all new hyperscale data centers, including those in the White Oak Technology Park. This regulation applies retroactively to projects that have been rezoned but not yet received final site plan approval or begun construction. Previously, large facilities within certain industrial or office zones could proceed without board-level approval. The new requirements aim to address community concerns over noise, water usage, and long-term sustainability.
Prince William County’s Digital Gateway Project Halted
In August 2025, a Prince William County judge invalidated the rezoning approvals for the Digital Gateway project, which proposed 37 data centers on 1,700 acres adjacent to Manassas National Battlefield Park. The court found that the county failed to comply with notice requirements, rendering the ordinances void. The project developers have indicated plans to appeal the ruling.
Fairfax County Tightens Data Center Development Rules
In September 2024, Fairfax County revised its zoning ordinance to impose stricter regulations on data center development. The new rules require data centers to enclose equipment to reduce visual and noise impacts and maintain a 200-foot setback from adjacent residential properties. These measures aim to balance technological growth with community well-being.
Amazon Withdraws Louisa County Data Center Proposal
In July 2025, Amazon Web Services withdrew its application for a 7.2 million square foot data center in Louisa County following strong community opposition. Residents raised concerns about the environmental impact and strain on local resources. Despite this withdrawal, three other data centers are still in various stages of development in the county.
Statewide Impact and Future Outlook
These developments reflect a growing trend in Virginia, where localities are implementing stricter regulations to manage the rapid expansion of data centers. While these facilities contribute significantly to the state’s economy, they also raise concerns about environmental impact, resource usage, and community well-being. The balance between technological advancement and sustainable development remains a critical issue for Virginia’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Digital Gateway project in Prince William County?
The Digital Gateway project proposed 37 data centers on 1,700 acres adjacent to Manassas National Battlefield Park. The project has been halted due to legal challenges regarding rezoning approvals.
Why did Amazon withdraw its data center proposal in Louisa County?
Amazon withdrew its application for a 7.2 million square foot data center in Louisa County following strong community opposition concerned about environmental impact and resource strain.
What new regulations has Fairfax County implemented for data centers?
Fairfax County revised its zoning ordinance to require data centers to enclose equipment to reduce visual and noise impacts and maintain a 200-foot setback from adjacent residential properties.
How has Henrico County addressed data center development?
Henrico County introduced a provisional use permit (PUP) requirement for all new hyperscale data centers, including those in the White Oak Technology Park, to address community concerns over noise, water usage, and sustainability.
What is the status of data center development in Virginia?
Virginia is experiencing rapid data center expansion, but localities are implementing stricter regulations to balance technological growth with environmental and community considerations.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Henrico County’s New Regulations | Introduced a provisional use permit (PUP) requirement for all new hyperscale data centers, including those in the White Oak Technology Park, to address community concerns over noise, water usage, and sustainability. |
| Prince William County’s Digital Gateway Project | Proposed 37 data centers on 1,700 acres adjacent to Manassas National Battlefield Park; halted due to legal challenges regarding rezoning approvals. |
| Fairfax County’s Zoning Ordinance Revision | Revised zoning ordinance to require data centers to enclose equipment to reduce visual and noise impacts and maintain a 200-foot setback from adjacent residential properties. |
| Amazon’s Withdrawal in Louisa County | Withdrew application for a 7.2 million square foot data center following strong community opposition concerned about environmental impact and resource strain. |
| Statewide Impact | Virginia’s rapid data center expansion faces regulatory challenges as localities implement stricter regulations to balance technological growth with environmental and community considerations. |
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Author: VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER
The VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionvanews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Virginia and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Virginia Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia and the Home Builders Association of Virginia, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Williams Mullen. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
