California cities resisting data centers
California cities and counties are moving to slow or restrict data center development despite new state laws requiring greater transparency and environmental review. Oakland approved a 45-day moratorium, while other communities including San Francisco, Los Angeles County, Santa Clara and Alhambra are considering or advancing similar restrictions amid concerns about power use, water consumption and pollution.
California municipalities are increasingly resisting data center growth as state lawmakers and Gov. Gavin Newsom pursue transparency, environmental review and grid-protection measures. Oakland’s City Council approved a 45-day moratorium on new data center approvals, while San Francisco adopted a similar pause. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors postponed a vote on permanently banning hyperscale facilities on unincorporated land after receiving substantial public feedback.
Officials in Santa Clara are developing stricter rules addressing water use and air pollution, and Alhambra residents are set to vote on a moratorium. Food & Water Watch California Director Nicole Ghio said the opposition reflects concerns about grid strain, water depletion, pollution and consumer costs. American Edge Project CEO Doug Kelly argued that data centers are essential infrastructure and urged negotiated community protections instead of blanket bans.