Fort Worth City Council Votes for Data Center Moratorium

The Fort Worth City Council voted unanimously on August 11 to initiate a 90-day moratorium on new data center applications, including building permits and rezoning requests. Scheduled to run from February 16 to May 17, 2027, the pause allows city leaders to study the industry's effects on noise levels, local infrastructure, and natural resources.

To guide future policy, the council established the Data Center & Infrastructure Committee to provide evidence-based regulatory recommendations. New application rules now require developers to provide proof of approval from the Electric Reliability Council of Texas and the Public Utility Commission of Texas, following a directive from Governor Greg Abbott.

The decision follows pressure from residents and the Sensible Data Center Coalition, who raised concerns regarding energy costs and water availability. The moratorium excludes projects with previously approved or submitted zoning applications, though city officials retain the authority to extend the pause for another 90 days if necessary.