What’s inside Memphis’ 135-day data center moratorium
Memphis City Council has enacted a data center moratorium lasting up to 135 days, during which the city cannot accept or approve new data center zoning or permit applications. The city’s Division of Planning and Development will study data center definitions, locations, developer disclosures and zoning standards before permanent rules are considered.
A 135-day moratorium on new data center applications is now in effect in Memphis after approval by the Memphis City Council. During the pause, existing data center operations may continue, but the city cannot accept or approve new zoning or permit applications. The moratorium will end by March 4, 2027, or earlier if permanent regulations are finalized.
The city’s Division of Planning and Development will report regulatory gaps to the City Council by day 45 and draft amendments to the city code by day 90. The proposed changes will address data center definitions, siting, developer disclosure requirements and zoning standards, and must ultimately be approved by the Shelby County Land Use Control Board and Memphis City Council.