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 Athens
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Neutral Data Center Policies
Athens enacted a one-year pause on new data centers, including AI facilities and large-scale storage; the mayor or service-safety director may extend it for another year.
Rating from Athens County as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for City of Athens.
current law · City of AthensThe City of Athens' published notice confirms Ordinance 0-70-26 imposes a temporary moratorium not to exceed one year on granting or issuing any permits for data centers within city limits.Ohio Athens Ordinance 0-70-26 (2026)
What this means
The measure would pause new data centers in Athens for one year, covering AI facilities and large-scale data storage, which would substantially delay development. The mayor or service-safety director could extend the pause by another year, making this a severe but temporary restriction, not a permanent ban. one-year temporary moratorium option to extend the moratorium by another year
Timing
Initial term not to exceed one year; mayor and/or service-safety director may extend another year. Exact end date not verified.
People behind it
- Mayor
Authorized by Ordinance 0-71-26 to enter and extend the agreement for Public Defender’s Office services.
- Service-Safety Director
Authorized by Ordinance 0-73-26 to advertise and accept bids and enter contracts for the Community Pavilion project.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
Pauses granting or issuing any permits for data centers within city corporate limits for up to one year.
Sources
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