Escambia drafts law opposing data centers. Why some say it's not enough
Escambia County's legal staff drafted an ordinance to "ban" data centers, citing concerns about utility infrastructure, water, and job creation. Some citizens worry the proposed ordinance is not strong enough, especially as the existing Land Development Code already states data centers are not a permitted use. The County Commissioners are scheduled to discuss the ordinance at their July 23 meeting.
Escambia County, Florida, is considering a newly drafted ordinance aimed at "banning" data centers, a response to significant citizen concerns and recent state legislation limiting local land-use restrictions. County legal staff prepared the ordinance, which highlights potential strains on utility infrastructure, water resources, and wastewater capacity as reasons to oppose data center development, arguing they offer limited long-term economic and employment benefits. The Escambia County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to discuss the proposal on July 23.
Despite the county's efforts, some residents, including petition organizer Brandy John, express skepticism, believing the proposed ordinance doesn't go far enough to ensure data centers won't be permitted. They question why companies were "shopping around" if existing county land development codes already prevent data centers by not listing them as a permitted or conditional use in any zoning district. FloridaWest CEO Chris Platé confirmed companies have inquired about the area but denied active negotiations.
Escambia County officials, including Board Chair Ashlee Hofberger, maintain that current zoning explicitly disallows data centers, stating there is "no ability to put a data center in Escambia County at this point." This stance aligns with actions taken by neighboring jurisdictions; both the City of Pensacola and Santa Rosa County are actively working to prevent large-scale data center developments, with Santa Rosa County having proposed a 12-month moratorium in July 2026.