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.
Oscoda Charter Township
Anti-Data Center Policies
Oscoda Charter Township’s enacted ordinance confines data centers to industrial-zoned areas and requires special-use approval. It also requires closed-loop cooling and addresses noise, energy, water, and infrastructure impacts.
current law · Oscoda TownshipRequires data centers to obtain a special land-use permit in the Industrial district and use closed-loop cooling, with site-specific review of impacts such as noise, water, energy, and infrastructure.Oscoda Township Data Center and Bitcoin Mining Regulatory Ordinance (2026)
What this means
The ordinance would limit data centers to the Industrial Zoning District and require special land-use approval, adding siting limits and review time (only permitted with a Special Land Use Permit). It would also require closed-loop cooling and address noise, energy, water, and infrastructure impacts, creating added design and compliance burdens (closed-loop cooling system).
People behind it
- Oscoda Township Planning Commission
Reviewed zoning amendments and recommended that the Township Board adopt the proposed data center and cryptocurrency mining ordinance.
- Oscoda Township Board of Trustees
Directed the review of zoning amendments and adopted the ordinance.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements3
Industrial District special-land-use approval required.
Closed-loop cooling required.
Adds enhanced site plan requirements and system/location standards; quantitative limits unverified.
Benefits & exceptionsHide benefits & exceptions1
Creates an explicit special land use approval pathway in the Industrial Zoning District.
Sources
Data provided by Regbase · Cookie preferences · Report missing data