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.
Sylvan Township
Neutral Data Center Policies
Washtenaw County enacted a resolution directing staff to prepare data-center guidance, but it does not require anyone to follow it; the suggestions could add costs or delays if municipalities adopt them.
Rating and summary from Washtenaw County as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for Sylvan Township.
expired · Sylvan TownshipTemporarily prohibits Sylvan Township from accepting or processing data-center applications for 12 months while it develops regulations, with possible six-month extensions.Sylvan Township Ordinance No. 26-01 (2026)
What this means
The 12-month moratorium stops the township from accepting or processing applications for data centers and related uses, creating a major delay for new construction and expansions; it may also be extended in six-month increments (12-month moratorium). It does not say existing data centers must stop operating, but the pause is a severe barrier to proposed projects.
People behind it
- Sylvan Township Board
Adopted the moratorium on data-center applications (the Board adopted the ordinance).
- Zoning Administrator
Was assigned to work with the Board and Planning Commission to draft data-center regulations (work with the Zoning Administrator and Planning Commission).
- Planning Commission
Was assigned to work with the Board and Zoning Administrator to draft data-center regulations (work with the Zoning Administrator and Planning Commission).
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
180-day moratorium on acceptance or processing of data center applications.
Benefits & exceptionsHide benefits & exceptions1
Earlier termination when new data center ordinances or regulations become effective; conditional relief, not an approval entitlement.
Sources
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