Texas and Ohio Local Governments Impose Data Center Moratoriums

Local governments in Texas and Ohio are imposing moratoriums on data center construction, citing the need to establish zoning regulations before development proceeds. The moves come amid a broader data center boom and growing concerns over resource consumption and community impact.

Hill County commissioners in Texas approved a one-year moratorium on new data center construction in unincorporated areas by a 3-2 vote on May 12, 2026. The pause excludes projects already under construction and was driven by concerns over public health, safety, noise pollution, and heavy water and electricity consumption. Commissioner Jim Holcomb and Judge Shane Brassell stated the moratorium provides time to study the industry's impact and establish regulations. The decision followed a proposed 300-acre development by Provident Data Centers in north Hillsboro. The county attorney warned of potential lawsuits from developers and the state, and Texas State Senator Paul Bettencourt has claimed counties lack authority to impose such moratoriums. Officials framed the move as a plea for state-level regulatory help.

In Ohio, Hubbard Township trustees approved a data center moratorium in February 2026, while Bazetta Township trustees followed with a 180-day moratorium approved in May. In Hubbard, Trustee Jason Tedrow explained the planning commission initially sought an outright ban but was informed such a move was not legally permissible. Tedrow cited cases in Lordstown and Jerome Township where companies threatened litigation after moratoriums were attempted following permit submissions. In Bazetta, Trustee Mike Hovis stated the moratorium aims to get ahead of development, while Zoning Commission Chair Deanna Longo said it allows time to write data center requirements into the township code. Both townships plan to use the moratorium periods to gather community input and professional guidance.