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 Fresno
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Anti-Data Center Policies
Fresno enacted a resolution starting review of a proposed citywide data-center ban; it does not impose the ban now. The amendment would block new development for 10 years, becoming permanent unless the City Council changes it.
Rating from Fresno County as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for City of Fresno.
current law · City of FresnoDirects staff to draft a citywide data-center ban lasting ten years and becoming permanent unless the Council changes it, and requires immediate notice to the Council of any data-center application.City of Fresno Resolution 26-1187 (2026)
What this means
The proposed amendment calls for a citywide data-center ban for 10 years, which would become permanent unless the Council changes it—effectively blocking new data-center development throughout the City of Fresno. The resolution starts a review process rather than imposing the ban immediately, but it offers no development benefits to offset the restriction and directs staff to prepare the amendment.
Timing
- Ends
- upon expiration of the ten-year prohibition term
The temporary prohibition on data centers lasts ten years. Upon expiration of that period, it becomes permanent unless amended by a City Council vote through standard procedures.
People behind it
- Nick Richardson
Listed as the sponsor of the resolution initiating the text amendment.
- City Council
Identified as the body that introduced the resolution.
- Office of the Mayor & City Manager
Added as a co-sponsor of the resolution.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements4
Data centers would be prohibited throughout the City of Fresno, including specialized facilities housing IT infrastructure used to train, deploy, and deliver artificial-intelligence applications and services.
The prohibition would apply to land within Fresno and land that later becomes part of the City of Fresno.
The prohibition would initially last ten years and would become permanent when that period expires unless the City Council amends it through its standard procedures.
The City Council would have to be notified immediately of any application for a data-center use.
Sources
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