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Dane County Proposes 18-Month Freeze on Data Center Permits

Dane County is considering an 18-month moratorium on new data center construction to develop zoning regulations regarding environmental, economic, and safety impacts.

By Colin Percy · May 28, 2026

The Dane County Board is preparing to review an 18-month moratorium on the development of data centers within unincorporated parts of the county. The proposal aims to establish a temporary hold on construction while officials study the potential economic, environmental, health, and safety implications of such facilities. Earlier this year, the county formed a specialized committee to research and provide recommendations regarding data center growth.

Board Chair Patrick Miles noted that the pause is intended to ensure the county has sufficient time to complete its policy review and make data-driven decisions before new projects are proposed. If the moratorium is approved, Dane County will join other local jurisdictions, including the City of Madison and Manitowoc County, that have implemented similar temporary restrictions on data center development.

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