Local Governments Enact Moratoriums on Data Center Development

Local governments across the United States are implementing moratoriums and seeking new regulations to manage the expansion of data centers. In Kentucky, the Rowan County Fiscal Court approved a two-year moratorium on large-scale data centers to establish oversight mechanisms and review processes. Judge-Executive Harry Clark noted that a lack of existing zoning laws currently limits the county's ability to review projects before construction begins, describing the facilities as a "necessary evil."

In Maryland, Prince George's County Councilmember Wanika Fisher introduced legislation to establish development rules, including minimum acreage and residential setbacks, which could provide a path to lift a two-year moratorium. While County Executive Aisha Braveboy views the industry as a potential revenue source for budget challenges, Council Chair Krystal Oriadha and local residents have raised concerns regarding infrastructure readiness and long-term health effects.

Similar tensions are appearing in Iowa, where a one-year moratorium is in effect in unincorporated Sioux County. Independent candidate Garth Van Donselaar is calling for statewide regulations to govern noise, zoning, and the consumption of power and water. Van Donselaar has specifically questioned the integrity of PathOne Data Center, accusing the company of using AI-generated graphics and nondisclosure agreements to obscure its operations while seeking to develop edge data centers in the region.