Zoning Commission Backs a Compromise on Data Center Rules With 350-Foot Buffers, Sending the Plan to Council for October 29
San Antonio's Zoning Commission recommended a compromise that would require a special zoning review for data centers in commercial and light-industrial districts, allow them by right in heavier industrial zones, and keep them 350 feet from homes, schools and hospitals.
San Antonio's Zoning Commission has recommended new rules to regulate data centers across the city, settling on a compromise plan at its October 20 meeting, according to the city's meeting record. Under the recommendation, a data center proposed in a General Commercial or Light Industrial district would need a Specific Use Authorization — a special zoning review — while data centers would be allowed by right in heavier industrial zones.
The compromise also sets 350-foot buffers from residential areas, schools and hospitals, mandates downward-facing lighting, and requires backup generators and chillers to be screened from public view. The meeting record describes a debate that weighed the jobs and tax revenue industry and labor representatives credited to data center investment against residents' and environmental advocates' concerns over noise, light pollution and strain on local water and energy grids.
The commission's recommendation now heads to the City Council for a final decision on October 29. That vote will decide whether the compromise becomes the city's standing rule for where large computing facilities can be built, and under what conditions, as more projects look at San Antonio.
