By-right use vs. special use permit
A by-right use is one the zoning code permits outright, so approval requires only meeting written standards through site plan and permit review. A special use permit, also called a conditional use, is a discretionary approval granted after a public hearing and review against criteria, often with conditions on noise, setbacks or screening. How a code classifies data centers varies by jurisdiction.
The full guide · Zoning, permitting & communityZoning for Data Centers: By-Right, Special Use and RezoningHow zoning applies to data centers: by-right use, special or conditional use permits, rezoning, overlays and what each path means for timeline and certainty.Where By-right use vs. special use permit comes up
- Zoning, permitting & communityData Center Zoning Ordinances and Overlay Districts: Recent Rules and Standards
- Guides by roleData Centers: A Guide for County Officials and Planners
- Zoning, permitting & communitySite Plan Review for Data Centers: What It Covers and How Long It Takes
- Zoning, permitting & communityPublic Hearings for Data Center Projects: Notice, Testimony and How to Prepare
- Feasibility, diligence & dealsHow Long Does Data Center Site Selection Take?
- Zoning, permitting & communityData Center Architectural and Visual Standards: Facades, Screening, Lighting and Height
- Markets & economicsThe Northern Virginia Data Center Market: History, Power Limits and Land Prices
- Zoning, permitting & communityThe Data Center Permitting Process, Step by Step
