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.
San Mateo County
Neutral Data Center Policies
San Mateo County’s enacted resolution directs staff to prepare zoning changes and consider banning new data centers in unincorporated areas, but imposes no ban or new operating rules now.
current law · Unincorporated areaDirects county staff to consider zoning changes, including a possible ban on new data centers in unincorporated San Mateo County.San Mateo County Board of Supervisors Resolution 26-853
What this means
The measure directs staff to prepare zoning changes and consider a countywide ban on new data centers in unincorporated areas, but it does not itself impose a ban or new operating rules (consider and prepare appropriate amendments). It may create some delay and uncertainty for future projects, so its immediate effect is minor and negative.
People behind it
- Lisa Gauthier
Sponsor of the resolution
- Noelia Corzo
Sponsor of the resolution
- Planning and Building Department
Directed to work with the County Executive’s Office and County Attorney’s Office to prepare potential zoning amendments
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- County Executive’s Office
Directed to collaborate on preparing potential zoning amendments
- County Attorney’s Office
Directed to collaborate on preparing potential zoning amendments
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
Directs Planning and Building Department staff to consider and prepare zoning amendments for the unincorporated area of San Mateo County, including a potential countywide ban on new data center construction; the resolution itself does not enact the ban.
Sources
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