Osceola County Says Large-Scale AI Data Center Applications Will Not Be Considered Pending State Study
Osceola County commissioners unanimously agreed not to consider applications for large-scale AI data centers while awaiting a state-mandated study. The pause will remain in place until commissioners review the study and any resulting changes to Florida law or local regulations.
The Osceola County Board of County Commissioners has deferred consideration of applications for large-scale artificial intelligence data centers while awaiting a statewide study required by Florida law. Commissioners reached the position during a June 2026 workshop on potential siting standards, meaning any submitted applications will not be reviewed for now.
Florida’s CS/CS/SB 484, enacted as Chapter 2026-65, requires the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability to commission an independent study of large-scale data centers. The report will examine economic, land, water, energy, infrastructure, public health and safety impacts, and recommend siting and mitigation measures. It is due to the governor and legislative leaders by July 1, 2027, though Osceola County officials said they may wait longer before acting on local standards.