Independence passes temporary ban on data centers, battery storage sites to update codes
Independence, Missouri, has enacted a six-month temporary ban on new data centers to allow city staff to review and update zoning, fire, and building codes that were not developed with data centers in mind. This decision follows local resident concerns about data center projects planned by Nebius and Patmos in the area. The ban explicitly does not affect existing data centers or projects that have already applied for permits.
The Independence City Council in Missouri passed a resolution on July 6 enacting a six-month temporary ban on new data centers. The moratorium aims to provide city staff with sufficient time to review and update the city's zoning laws and other relevant codes, including business, fire, and building regulations, which were not originally designed to accommodate data center developments.
Councilman Bruce Stewart, who sponsored the resolution, stated that the city manager is tasked with recommending necessary changes to the codes. City Manager Troy Anderson confirmed that his staff has already begun research, drafted amendments, and plans to present these to the planning commission later this month.
The decision comes amidst voiced concerns from Independence residents regarding a substantial $150 billion data center project by Nebius and another planned by Patmos in the vicinity. Councilman Stewart clarified that the temporary ban will only apply to new applicants for data centers and permits, explicitly not affecting existing data centers or any projects that have already received approval or submitted applications.
This move by Independence mirrors similar temporary bans on data center development recently passed in nearby Jackson County and Kansas City, indicating a regional trend towards reassessing regulatory frameworks for such facilities.