Los Angeles County halts AI data center development, proposes permanent ban
Los Angeles County's Planning Director issued an immediate prohibition on new large-scale AI data centers in unincorporated areas, while officials work to enact a permanent zoning ban. This action follows significant resident pressure and concerns over environmental, health, and resource impacts, reflecting broader opposition seen in cities like El Segundo and Monterey Park.
Los Angeles County Planning Director Amy Bodek has issued an immediate prohibition on new large-scale AI data centers in the county's unincorporated areas. This directive halts development while officials work to integrate a permanent ban into the zoning code, which currently lacks specific regulations for AI-related data centers. The action stems from a unanimous motion by the Board of Supervisors, spearheaded by Chair Hilda Solis, following months of resident pressure.
Supervisor Solis introduced the motion in response to concerns from San Gabriel Valley residents regarding data center impacts, including potential effects on electrical and water resources, public health, and environmental safety. The Board has directed county departments, including Regional Planning and Public Health, to conduct studies and propose zoning changes and resident protections. Solis indicated that the need for a ban is further underscored by alarming developments in the AI sector.
While the county's order applies only to unincorporated areas, the article highlights similar struggles in incorporated cities. In El Segundo, a proposal to convert a hotel into a data center was withdrawn after intense community opposition and public comment. Monterey Park voters recently approved Measure NDC, prohibiting all data centers unless a future vote repeals the restriction, following an initial 45-day moratorium imposed by its City Council. Cities like El Monte and Baldwin Park have also established year-long bans on proposed data centers.
The No Data Centers SGV coalition is actively opposing projects, with one example being SDCF Monterey Park, LLC's plan for a data center in Monterey Park, which drew criticism over potential air, land, and water pollution. Despite industry reports on data center contributions to jobs and taxes in California, local governments are increasingly responding to community concerns about their proliferation.