In data center hubs Aurora and DeKalb, two different approaches to setting restrictions
Aurora, Illinois, implemented strict new ordinances for data centers following an expired moratorium, addressing zoning, environmental impacts, and energy use due to public backlash. In contrast, DeKalb, Illinois, has adopted a more permissive approach to data center development, prioritizing economic benefits. Statewide, groups like Illinois People's Action are advocating for stricter regulations through the proposed POWER Act.
The City of Aurora, Illinois, has implemented some of the state's strictest regulations for its ten data centers following public backlash and concerns that facilities were bypassing zoning laws by being classified as warehouses. In September 2025, the city imposed a 180-day moratorium on new data center applications. The moratorium expired in March 2026, the same day the city council voted to approve new, comprehensive requirements.
The new ordinances require data centers to apply as conditional use facilities, necessitating public hearings and city council approval. These regulations address transparency, building permits, and environmental concerns, mandating water, energy management, and sound studies at the time of application. Furthermore, the city has set energy consumption limits, prohibits evaporative cooling, and requires new data centers to either incorporate 25% on-site renewables or provide 50% battery storage for peak load.
In contrast, the City of DeKalb, home to a Meta data center and the planned Endeavour Energy facility, adopted a less stringent approach. While DeKalb rezoned for industrial development, City Manager Bill Nicklas noted that the land was always intended for such use. DeKalb primarily focuses on financial benefits from data centers, with Meta's water use metered and new projects like Edged promising waterless cooling and non-diesel generators, without requiring extensive environmental studies beyond initial water assessments.
Statewide, the grassroots advocacy group Illinois People's Action (IPA) continues to oppose the data center expansion in downstate Illinois, pushing for policies that require data centers to pay their fair share, support clean energy development, and ensure water and air protections. IPA's priorities align with parts of Governor Pritzker's framework for data center policy and the proposed POWER Act, which failed to advance in the last legislative session but remains a focus for advocates.