Los Angeles County issues temporary ban on AI data centers

Los Angeles County has issued a temporary prohibition on the development of large-scale data centers intended to power artificial intelligence within its unincorporated areas. The directive, issued by Department of Regional Planning Director Amy Bodek, serves as interim guidance while the county works to codify these restrictions into permanent zoning regulations.

The move follows a motion introduced by Los Angeles County Board Chair and First District Supervisor Hilda Solis, which was unanimously approved by the Board of Supervisors. Solis cited public health and environmental concerns raised by residents, particularly in the San Gabriel Valley, as well as potential catastrophic impacts from the AI sector. The county intends to amend its zoning code to formally prohibit these facilities to ensure technological growth does not compromise resident welfare or environmental protections.