Fort Worth Weighs Data Center Pause as Zoning Rules Sent Back to Council

Fort Worth, Texas, is currently debating new zoning and development regulations for data centers, including a possible moratorium on new projects within city limits. Five city council members—Carlos Flores, Mia Hall, Chris Nettles, Elizabeth Beck, and Jeanette Martinez—issued a call for the moratorium in early July, citing environmental impact, power demands, and noise as primary concerns. They aim to balance economic opportunities with resident protection through thoughtful regulations.

The initial ordinance proposal was denied by zoning commissioners, who sought greater detail, stricter rules, and more review time. This proposal has been returned to the city council for further deliberation on modifications. Proposed measures include increased mandatory distances from residential areas, acoustic barriers, closed-loop cooling systems, and a potential prohibition on crypto-mining facilities. Assistant City Manager Jesica McEachern noted that staff recommendations focus on enhancing rules and implementing good development practices.

The discussions in Fort Worth follow broader scrutiny of data centers across Texas, with San Marcos recently becoming the first Texas city to ban them. Governor Greg Abbott has also urged data centers to operate in ways that reduce residential electricity costs, conserve water, and consider community needs. The Public Utility Commission of Texas is expected to reevaluate how costs are passed on to consumers. Fort Worth City Council is scheduled to review proposed zoning rules at a meeting on August 11.