The Data Center Divide
A policy snapshot ahead of the 2026 midterms. Mapping data center incentives, restrictions, and bans through legislation, regulations, and executive actions across all 50 states and 1,462 local jurisdictions.
City of Leeds
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Slightly Anti-Data Center Policies
Leeds has an enacted one-year pause on approvals for new data centers and expansions; existing centers may keep operating. The accompanying description conflicts by saying “if enacted.”
Rating from Alabama statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for City of Leeds.
current law · City of LeedsWould impose a one-year pause on city review and approval of zoning permits, site-development plans, subdivisions, and plan amendments whose material purpose is developing a new data center or expanding an existing one; the measure says the pause would preserve the status quo while Leeds develops appropriate regulations, citing potential impacts such as high energy and water use, noise, and pressure on utility infrastructure.Alabama Leeds data center moratorium (2026)
What this means
If enacted, this would pause approvals for new data centers and expansions for one year, creating a substantial but temporary barrier to development. It does not prohibit existing centers from operating, so it is less severe than a permanent ban.
Timing
- Ends
- one year from the effective date
The moratorium expires one year from its effective date, unless extended or repealed earlier. The source does not provide a definite effective date.
People behind it
- Council Member Kennedy
Identified as the sponsor of Ordinance 2026-06-02, the data center moratorium.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
For one year from the ordinance’s effective date, unless extended or repealed sooner, the City would stop accepting, processing, or approving zoning permits, site development plans, subdivisions, and site-plan amendments when a material purpose is developing a new data center or expanding an existing data center, including increasing its gross floor area (moratorium scope and duration).
Sources
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