Nate Nehring Explains Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers
Snohomish County Council unanimously adopted a temporary six-month moratorium on data centers in unincorporated areas, proposed by Councilmember Nate Nehring. The purpose is to allow time to develop long-term policies and regulations for data center development. This proactive measure aims to address concerns about land use, infrastructure, energy, and water demands, with public input driving the process.
Snohomish County Councilmember Nate Nehring proposed a temporary moratorium on data centers in unincorporated Snohomish County, which the County Council unanimously adopted on June 24, 2026. The six-month moratorium, with an option for a six-month extension, aims to provide the county time to deliberate on a long-term data center policy and establish regulations before new facilities are sited. This move responds to public concerns among Snohomish County residents regarding data centers' impacts on land use, infrastructure, energy, water demand, and neighboring communities.
The moratorium, which only applies to unincorporated areas, allows the County Council to evaluate data center impacts, gather community input, and consult with stakeholders on permanent regulations. Skagit County and the City of Seattle have also adopted similar temporary moratoriums. The process involves developing a draft proposal by the County Council, which will then be reviewed by the Planning Commission.
Councilmember Nehring's office is actively soliciting community feedback through a public survey to guide the development of draft data center regulations. This proactive approach seeks to ensure that Snohomish County's future growth is shaped by community engagement and reflects the values and concerns of its residents, addressing issues like resource consumption and potential noise impacts.