Supervisors considering AI data center ban for unincorporated LA County
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is set to consider a proposal directing staff to draft zoning rules that would prohibit large-scale and AI data centers in all unincorporated areas of the county. The proposal cites concerns about energy and water consumption, pollution, noise and potential public health effects, while also responding to public opposition in the San Gabriel Valley.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to consider Supervisor Hilda Solis’ motion directing the Department of Regional Planning to draft a zoning amendment defining data centers by size, energy use and water consumption. The proposed rules would prohibit large-scale and hyperscale facilities, including those serving artificial intelligence systems, in every zone of unincorporated Los Angeles County while distinguishing them from smaller enterprise and accessory facilities.
The motion follows a county study of data centers’ health, environmental, safety, electricity and water impacts and more than 100 pages of public comments, largely calling for a moratorium. It would also examine noise regulations, notify residents about an existing planning action affecting large-scale facilities and prepare for a possible moratorium if a proposed project poses an immediate threat to public health, safety or environmental resources.