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.
Franklin County
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Mixed Data Center Policies
Franklin County’s enacted ordinance pauses county review and approval of large-scale data centers in unincorporated areas for one year. It delays new projects and expansions but is not a permanent ban.
Rating from Florida statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for Franklin County.
Specific to Franklin County only.
current law · Unincorporated areasPauses county approval of large-scale data centers and large-load facilities in unincorporated Franklin County for one year.Franklin County Ordinance No. 2026-08 (2026)
What this means
The measure would pause county processing and approval of large-scale data center projects in unincorporated Franklin County for one year, creating a major delay for new construction and expansion (temporary moratorium). It is not a permanent ban, but projects would generally have to wait while the county develops new rules.
Timing
- Ends
- One year after the effective date, unless earlier terminated or extended; exact calendar date unverified.
Extension requires an ordinance after public hearing. Staff must present proposed amendments or a written status report within 180 days.
People behind it
- Ricky Jones
Commissioner Chairman quoted on the moratorium.
- Bree Robinson
County Planner involved in preparing definitions and rules.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements3
Pauses acceptance, processing, review, approval and issuance of county applications and approvals for establishing, constructing, expanding or intensifying covered facilities in unincorporated Franklin County.
Coverage begins at an anticipated monthly peak electric load of 50 megawatts or more; the large-load definition prohibits splitting electrical load among smaller connections, meters, accounts, parcels, phases, tenants or related facilities to avoid coverage.
Applies to new applications and pending applications not deemed complete before effectiveness.
Benefits & exceptionsHide benefits & exceptions3
Previously complete applications may continue under prior regulations unless the Board finds substantial public-health, safety or welfare risk after notice and hearing.
Exceptions cover qualifying repairs and interior alterations, emergency and safety work, specified government facilities, development authorized by final unexpired development orders and building permits, and discretionary Board exemptions.
Relief is available on competent substantial evidence of unlawful impairment of vested rights or an unconstitutional taking, limited to the minimum necessary.
Sources
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