The Linn County Board of Supervisors today voted unanimously to approve the gas-fired electric generating facility ordinance for unincorporated Linn County. The new ordinance includes setback rules, and standards for noise, airport safety areas, impacts on roads, and what information must be included in applications. The ordinance establishes clear and consistent rules that help power plants fit with nearby land uses and account for the long-term impacts of large energy facilities while maintaining consistency with the Development Guidance portion of Linn County’s Comprehensive Plan. Linn County’s jurisdiction for a gas-fired electric generating facility ordinance covers unincorporated Linn County only and does not cover facilities that operate within a city’s boundaries.

For gas-fired electric generating facilities, the ordinance creates a dedicated zoning framework with added requirements to address land use compatibility, public safety, noise, infrastructure impacts, and the County’s long-term service responsibilities. Gas-fired projects would need to do the following:

• Be located in the County’s EU-2 zoning district, designated for large energy facilities such as gas-fired or nuclear generation.

• Meet setback requirements of 200 feet from property lines, 1,000 feet from dwellings and public gathering places, and 2.25 miles from residential areas, unless the Board of Supervisors approves reductions under specific standards.

• Provide project planning documents, including an economic development plan and a Major Site Plan.

• Enter into a Host Community Agreement with Linn County that provides ongoing payments to support public services related to the facility.

• Meet operational and construction requirements, including noise limits, road use agreements, drainage repair responsibilities, waste management planning, and airport compatibility approvals if applicable.

“As Linn County and our local jurisdictions continue to grow and consider new, large-scale projects, our demand for reliable energy will continue to grow as well.,” said District 3 Linn County Supervisor Brandy Meisheid. “This ordinance is about finding the right balance and protecting our residents while allowing the flexibility and innovation needed to support future development. In a space that is changing so quickly, it is important we create a framework that serves not only today’s needs, but those of future boards and generations.”

Find more information on gas-fired electric generating facilities in unincorporated Linn County on the Linn County website.