El Segundo extends temporary ban on data centers until next fall
El Segundo extended its temporary moratorium on new data center development for about 10.5 months, until next September, while city staff review zoning rules and develop local regulations. Residents raised concerns about water use, electricity demand, noise and pollution, while one council member opposed the extension and a prior data center proposal was withdrawn after community opposition.
The El Segundo City Council voted 4-1 to extend a temporary moratorium on new data centers and related land-use approvals until approximately September. The pause gives city staff time to review zoning definitions, permitting procedures, existing laws and recently adopted California requirements before recommending updated local regulations.
The moratorium follows the withdrawal of a proposed data center after residents objected to its potential power use, noise and pollution. Community members also cited water and chemical risks, with Rebecca Hamburg-Cappy of the Wiseburn Unified School District Board of Trustees urging consideration of a permanent ban on hyperscale facilities near schools. Councilmember Drew Boyles opposed the extension, arguing it could infringe on property rights, while Councilmember Ryan Baldino supported further review of local concerns.