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.
Swain County
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Slightly Pro-Data Center Policies
Swain County has enacted a temporary 12-month pause on construction of new data centers; the description does not say it affects existing centers’ operations.
Rating from North Carolina statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for Swain County.
Specific to Swain County only.
current law · County measureImposes a binding, temporary 12-month moratorium on new data centers in the county, including data center construction, giving Swain County time to research data center development and consider a stricter, longer-term ordinance.Swain County Data Center Moratorium (2026)
What this means
The measure creates a major obstacle to new data centers by pausing their construction for 12 months (the county passed a 12-month moratorium). It is temporary, and the sources do not say it stops existing data centers from operating.
Timing
- Ends
- 12 months after adoption
The moratorium applies to new data centers. The sources state that it was approved on April 21, 2026, and lasts 12 months; no extension condition is stated.
People behind it
- Swain County Board of Commissioners
Unanimously passed the 12-month moratorium on new data centers and is administering the subsequent research and ordinance-development process.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
A 12-month moratorium prohibits new data centers from being constructed in Swain County.
Sources
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