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.
McDowell County
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Slightly Pro-Data Center Policies
McDowell County has enacted a six-month pause on data center development while it studies possible rules. The pause delays projects but is not a permanent ban.
Rating from North Carolina statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for McDowell County.
Specific to McDowell County only.
current law · County measureOn August 31, 2026, McDowell County commissioners adopted a six-month data-center moratorium by a 5–0 vote.McDowell County Board of Commissioners Six-Month Data Center Moratorium (2026)
What this means
The six-month moratorium would temporarily stop data center development while the county studies possible rules, delaying projects that might otherwise proceed. It is not a permanent ban, but the pause is a substantial short-term barrier.
Timing
The Board adopted a six-month moratorium on August 31, 2026. Exact effective date and calendar sunset, early termination, extensions and exemptions are not verified without the standalone ordinance; no expiration date has been calculated or invented.
People behind it
- David Walker
Commissioner who moves to enact the six-month moratorium.
- Lynn Greene
Vice-Chair who seconds the moratorium motion.
- Ashley Wooten
County Manager who presents staff recommendations.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
Six-month data-center development moratorium gives staff and the Planning Board time to study concerns and prepare proposed regulatory parameters. Specific permitting coverage and exceptions cannot be verified from the motion alone.
Sources
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