Enact a Temporary Pause on New Data Center Developments (Moratoriums)

Local governments can institute time-bound moratoriums on new data center approvals, usually to give the city or county time to update the municipal code, change zoning restrictions, or issue other regulations. This process may eventually lead to a ban, as was the case in Groton, Connecticut.

Moratoriums should last for at least 180 days to provide a meaningful opportunity for community notification and engagement.

Strong example

A 180-day moratorium on data centers was instituted in Coweta County, Georgia.

Strong Example

A one-year moratorium on data centers larger than 5,000 square feet was passed in Groton, Connecticut. The town later instituted a ban on data centers larger than 12,500 square feet.

Strong Example

A six-month moratorium was passed in September 2025 in Prince George’s County, Maryland, pausing new data center development.