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 Rochester
Anti-Data Center Policies
Rochester’s enacted ordinance bars data centers in all but the recycling industrial district, where a conditional-use permit is required. This leaves a narrow, uncertain route for new construction or expansion rather than a complete ban.
current law · City of RochesterRochester's data-center zoning amendment is in effect following the August 18, 2026 meeting.New Hampshire Rochester Ordinance Chapter 275 (2026)
What this means
The measure would bar data centers in every zoning district except the recycling industrial district, where a conditional-use permit would be required (only one district would allow them with a permit). That leaves a narrow, uncertain path to approval, making new construction and expansion substantially harder, though it is not a complete ban.
People behind it
- City Council
Amended the data-center definition in the ordinance.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
Data centers are prohibited in every zoning district except the Recycling Industrial District, where they require a conditional use permit. The ordinance prohibits data centers in every zoning district.
Benefits & exceptionsHide benefits & exceptions1
Data centers are allowed in the recycling industrial district with a conditional use permit; they are prohibited in the city’s other zoning districts. Recycling industrial district exception
Sources
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