Whittier Bans Data Centers, Detention Sites and Car Washes for 45 Days
The Whittier City Council adopted a 45-day moratorium on new data centers, citing concerns about electricity use, water demand, infrastructure capacity, backup generators and noise. The city may extend the moratorium while studying permanent zoning or code changes.
The Whittier City Council voted Oct. 27 to immediately halt new data centers within city limits for 45 days through urgency ordinance 3174. The temporary ban also covers cryptocurrency-mining and blockchain-processing operations, and followed a public hearing focused on infrastructure, electricity, water supplies, environmental impacts and public safety.
Community Development Director Ben Pongetti said the moratorium gives city officials time to evaluate whether permanent changes to the Whittier Municipal Code are needed. The council could extend the measure on Dec. 8 for up to 10 months and 15 days, with additional extensions potentially allowing a two-year study period.