Cache County to consider pausing data center applications
Cache County in Utah is considering a temporary moratorium on new data center applications. This pause would allow the County to develop specific codes and regulatory frameworks tailored to its needs for potential data center projects. The Council plans to initiate a comprehensive study to explore various zoning and utility regulations.
The Cache County Council is scheduled to consider a temporary moratorium on data center applications at its upcoming meeting. Council Chair Sandi Goodlander stated that while no applications have been received yet, the moratorium, if enacted, would pause all new land use, business license, zoning, and building permit applications related to data centers in unincorporated areas of Cache County.
The proposed measure aims to give the County time to develop a comprehensive code that addresses data center parameters specific to Cache County. Goodlander emphasized the goal is preparedness, not a stance for or against data centers. The ordinance also calls for county staff and the Cache County Planning Commission to conduct a 150-day study. This study will explore regulatory frameworks, special zoning classifications, and utility thresholds, including options for a permanent prohibition of high-impact facilities in sensitive agricultural, residential, and rural zones.