California cities implement moratoriums on data center development

Local governments across California are increasingly implementing moratoriums or bans on new data center developments, citing concerns over infrastructure strain. While Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed laws focused on transparency, environmental impact studies, and grid protection, municipal leaders are taking more direct action to manage resources.

In the Bay Area, Oakland and San Francisco have approved moratoriums, while Santa Clara is moving toward stricter water and air pollution regulations. In Los Angeles County, officials are considering permanent bans on large-scale hyperscale facilities on unincorporated land. In Alhambra, residents are set to vote on a moratorium this November.

In San Diego, Mayor Todd Gloria signed an executive order to advance a temporary moratorium to protect local water supplies, electricity grids, and housing availability. This action follows discussions regarding a potential 400-megawatt facility at the Old Town Naval Information Warfare Systems Command site. If approved by the City Council, the pause will halt new construction while the city drafts comprehensive regulations.