Local Governments Across US Implement Data Center Moratoriums

Local governments across the United States are increasingly restricting data center development to address concerns over water usage, noise, and electrical grid strain. In Nebraska, Matt Schulte, a Lancaster County Commissioner, introduced a proposal on August 27, 2026, for a 12-month moratorium on new data centers. The measure aims to allow the county to study infrastructure impacts and create specific zoning regulations, as current rules do not address these facilities.

Other Nebraska jurisdictions have taken more aggressive steps. The Nehawka Village Board passed an ordinance outright banning data centers, cryptocurrency mining, and blockchain computing. Similarly, the Marshall County Zoning Commission unanimously recommended a six-month moratorium on AI computing and data mining facilities to allow for the drafting of formal ordinances. In Warren Township, Zoning Commission Chairman Darryl Parker announced plans for a temporary freeze, though Trustee Ed Anthony noted the trustee board has not yet formally decided on the matter.

Outside Nebraska, the Savannah City Council in Georgia unanimously voted for a temporary moratorium on large-scale data centers exceeding 200,000 square feet or using 10 megawatts of electricity. In Yamhill County, a proposal to limit construction was stalled by commissioners who argued existing processes are sufficient. However, some officials cited a cautionary case in Saline Township, Michigan, where local authorities settled a lawsuit with Oracle and OpenAI after lacking the funds to fight the legal battle. In response to these trends, Democratic state senators plan to propose a three-year moratorium on new data centers during the 2027 legislative session.