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 Fairborn
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Mixed Data Center Policies
Fairborn enacted a pause on approvals for new data centers for 12 months, extendable by up to six months, while it studies zoning rules. Existing operations do not appear to be covered.
Rating from Ohio statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for City of Fairborn.
current law · City of FairbornPauses approval of data center development in Fairborn for 12 months, with a possible extension of up to six months.City of Fairborn Resolution 38-26 (2026)
What this means
The measure would pause approvals for new data centers for 12 months, with an extension of up to six more months, while the city studies possible zoning rules (a 12-month pause). That could substantially delay or block new projects during that period, though it does not appear to ban existing data center operations.
Timing
- Ends
- 12 months after adoption
The moratoriums are temporary and may be extended for up to six additional months. They may also end earlier if permanent regulations are adopted sooner.
People behind it
- Kathleen Riggs
City Planner who presented Resolution 38-26 and conveyed staff’s recommendation for approval.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
Approval of data centers is subject to a temporary moratorium for 12 months, with an authorized extension of up to six additional months (temporary moratoriums ... 12 months ... six additional months).
Sources
expired · City of FairbornTemporarily halts approvals for data centers in Fairborn, including under a 12-month moratorium adopted in 2026 and an earlier 180-day moratorium in 2022.Fairborn Ordinance 25-22 (2022)
What this means
The city’s 12-month temporary moratorium would temporarily make it much harder to build or expand data centers by pausing approvals. The source also lists an earlier 180-day moratorium, but neither measure is a permanent ban.
People behind it
- City of Fairborn
Adopted Resolution 38-26, which established temporary moratoria.
- City of Fairborn
Issued Ordinance 25-22, imposing a temporary data center moratorium.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
Tracker describes a temporary moratorium on permits, certificates and approvals for data-center operation or property use. Original text not verified.
Sources
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