Local Governments Implement Data Center Moratoriums Across US

Local governments across the United States are implementing freezes on hyperscale data center development to address concerns over resource consumption and community impact. In North Carolina, the Jackson County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on August 18, 2026, prohibiting new zoning and building permits for such facilities until August 2027. The board intends to use this period to define data centers for the Unified Development Ordinance and consult experts on balancing tax benefits with quality-of-life concerns.

Similar actions are unfolding in Florida. The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved the language for a one-year moratorium on facilities with a peak load of 50 megawatts or more, with a final implementation vote scheduled for September 24. Meanwhile, the Martin County Board of County Commissioners voted on August 25 to seek a proposal for a one-year moratorium in unincorporated areas. This move followed warnings that AI-driven data centers could jeopardize water supplies and increase electricity costs.

In Indiana, the Vermillion County Board of Commissioners rejected a proposed data center ordinance on Tuesday night after significant public opposition. President RJ Dunavan stated the proposal was not a viable starting point, leading the board to establish a new committee to draft a replacement ordinance and propose a moratorium through the Area Plan Commission.