Levy County approves moratorium on data centers
Levy County commissioners in Florida have approved a temporary moratorium on data centers and other large-scale facilities in unincorporated areas of the county. The moratorium, effective October 1, 2024, or upon state filing, will last until September 30, 2027, to allow staff to study potential impacts and develop specific regulations. Concerns cited include the significant demands these facilities place on electricity, water, and infrastructure.
The Levy County Board of County Commissioners in Florida has enacted a temporary moratorium on data centers and other large-scale facilities, effective in unincorporated areas of the county. Approved via Ordinance 2026-05 during their September 8 meeting, the moratorium will halt the processing of applications for such facilities from October 1, 2024, or upon filing with the Florida Department of State, until September 30, 2027.
The purpose of this three-year pause is to allow county staff to conduct comprehensive studies on the potential impacts of these facilities and to develop specific comprehensive plan policies and land development regulations. Currently, Levy County lacks explicit rules for data centers regarding their location, scale, infrastructure needs, and environmental effects, and they are not permitted in any existing land use or zoning categories.
The ordinance was prompted by concerns over the substantial demands data centers place on electricity, water, and infrastructure, including continuous electric load, cooling systems, wastewater management, backup generators, and telecommunications. Commissioners also noted potential impacts such as noise, vibration, lighting, heat, increased construction traffic, and strain on public services. Specific attention will be given to water resources, including the Floridan Aquifer, water supply, and drought conditions.
The moratorium applies to new and pending applications that are not yet deemed complete, with exemptions for ordinary computer rooms supporting other lawful uses, public telecommunications, government public safety facilities, and previously approved developments without material modifications. Staff are directed to present proposed amendments and recommendations to the board by August 30, 2027.