Aberdeen City Council Enacts Moratorium on Data Center Permits
The City of Aberdeen, South Dakota, has passed Resolution No. 26-07-04R, enacting a short-term moratorium on the issuance of local permits for data center construction and operation. This emergency measure allows the city to study the impacts of data centers and update its comprehensive plan and zoning ordinances. The moratorium was unanimously approved by the City Council on July 20, 2026.
The City of Aberdeen, South Dakota, has officially enacted a temporary moratorium on the issuance of local permits for data center construction, development, or operation. Resolution No. 26-07-04R, passed by the City Council on July 20, 2026, aims to provide the city with necessary time to study the unique needs and potential impacts of data centers on the community.
The City Council made preliminary findings that current regulations might not adequately address data center requirements, leading to unpredictability in the permitting process and potential risks to real estate investments. Officials also noted that existing planning, zoning, and building frameworks need comprehensive examination and potential amendments to align with the city's 2019 comprehensive plan and public interest considerations.
Mayor Travis Schaunaman and Finance Officer Jordan McQuillen attested to the resolution, which received a unanimous vote of 7-0. The city views this short-term halt as an emergency stopgap to preserve the status quo and prevent significant investment until revised regulations, incorporating public input from citizens, businesses, and industry representatives, can be fully established.