Fresno officials to consider 10-year data center ban amid resource concerns

The Fresno City Council is scheduled to vote on a proposed 10-year ban on data centers within city limits, an initiative championed by Councilmember Nick Richardson and co-sponsored by Mayor Jerry Dyer. The resolution aims to amend Fresno’s development code to explicitly prohibit data centers, thereby closing a loophole that currently grants the planning director discretionary approval for such facilities. Both officials have voiced significant concerns over the substantial water and energy demands of data centers, emphasizing the critical need to preserve Fresno's limited resources for its residents.

This legislative move follows broader speculation about potential data center projects, particularly within the proposed Southeast Development Area (SEDA). Some council members worry that SEDA, initially zoned for “flexible research and advanced manufacturing,” could inadvertently pave the way for data centers. Planning Director Jennifer Clark confirmed that data centers are not currently permitted in Fresno, and city staff are actively drafting code to prevent their inclusion in future development plans like SEDA.

The local debate in Fresno mirrors a national trend where communities are scrutinizing data center development due to their environmental impact. Nearby Tulare County recently enacted a temporary moratorium on data center development following public opposition. Additionally, the California High Speed Rail Authority has cautioned against over-reliance on data centers for developing the train's corridor. Despite a University of Pennsylvania study suggesting the Central Valley could become a