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 Northfield
Mixed Data Center Policies
Minnesota keeps tax breaks for qualifying data-center equipment and software, but electricity is taxable, adding operating costs. Qualifying large centers also face annual fees and labor and building conditions; projects meeting general thresholds may require environmental review.
Rating and summary from Minnesota statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for City of Northfield.
pending · City of NorthfieldReduces the required setback for data centers from parks, trails, and other recreational areas from 3,950 feet to 200 feet.Northfield Ordinance 1098
What this means
The proposal would make data center development more feasible by reducing the park and trail setback from 3,950 feet to 200 feet. It still keeps other requirements, including a 25-acre minimum site and operating standards, so this is a meaningful but limited easing rather than a broad removal of restrictions.
People behind it
- Scott Wopata
Staff report author; Community Development Director.
- Mathias Hughey
Staff report author; Interim City Planner.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
The proposal retains a minimum acreage of 25 acres and a structure setback of at least 200 feet from any residential dwelling; these are retained restrictions, not newly added requirements.
Benefits & exceptionsHide benefits & exceptions1
Proposes reducing the setback from parks, trails and other recreational features from 3,950 feet to 200 feet.
Sources
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