# US municipal data center regulation developments > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-municipal-data-center-regulation-developments > Updated: 2026-08-17T22:42:20.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Municipalities in the United States are implementing new regulations to manage the development and impact of data centers. In Joplin, the City Council approved an ordinance establishing standards for noise, lighting, water usage, and cooling systems. The regulations include a 45-decibel noise limit at residential property lines and requirements for wastewater pretreatment and emissions compliance. A significant amendment by Mayor Rob O’Brian doubled the required setback from residential and public-use properties from 300 feet to 600 feet. The council also removed a special-use-permit requirement, shifting the responsibility for utility upgrades to operators. Decatur has also moved to amend its city zoning laws regarding data center operations. Meanwhile, in Fort Worth, planned data-center updates were halted following an order from Texas Governor Greg Abbott for a statewide audit of super-computer hubs. This audit aims to examine tax exemptions, power and water usage, and community-impact mitigation. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-17: Decatur and Joplin amend zoning laws for data centers Cities in Decatur and Joplin are updating zoning laws to regulate data center developments, including new setback requirements and environmental standards. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/decatur-and-joplin-amend-zoning-laws-for-data-centers ### 2026-08-03: US Cities Adopt New Data Center Regulations Amid Texas Governor Audit Joplin, Missouri, and Fort Worth, Texas, adopt stricter data‑center rules, with Joplin enacting noise and wastewater standards and Fort Worth pausing projects pending a statewide audit ordered by Gov. Greg Abb­ 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-cities-adopt-new-data-center-regulations-amid-texas-governor-audit --- Cite as: US municipal data center regulation developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-municipal-data-center-regulation-developments