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.
Polk County
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Pro-Data Center Policies
Polk County’s adopted moratorium pauses applications and approvals for covered new projects for 12 months from publication, with a possible six-month extension. It does not expressly stop existing operations, and publication and expiration dates are unverified.
Rating from Wisconsin statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for Polk County.
Specific to Polk County only.
current law · County measure: Land subject to Chapter 42Polk County adopted Resolution 29-26 on August 18, 2026, by a 14–1 vote, creating Section 42-41 and pausing applications, review, permits and approvals for placement or construction of data centers on all land regulated under Chapter 42, including shoreland, floodplain, Lower St.Polk County Resolution 29-26 creating Section 42-41 — Data Center Moratorium (2026)
What this means
Analytical assessment: the adopted moratorium significantly delays covered new projects by pausing applications and approvals for an initial 12 months from publication, with a possible six-month extension. It does not expressly halt existing operations. Publication and exact expiration dates remain unverified.
Timing
- Ends
- 12 months from publication, unless amended or rescinded sooner; may be extended by up to six months
Resolution 29-26, Section 42-41(2)–(4). Effective upon passage and publication. Publication and exact calendar expiration dates are unverified.
People behind it
- Polk County Board of Supervisors
Adopted Resolution 29-26 by a 14–1 vote on August 18, 2026.
- Environmental Services Committee
Recommended adoption and is assigned hearings and recommendations on future standards.
- Kim O’Connell
Supervisor who voted for the resolution and offered coverage amendments in the meeting reporting.
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- Russell Arcand
County Board Chair; signed the adopted resolution.
- Shabana Lundeen
County Clerk; attested to adoption.
- Joseph H. Loso
Corporation Counsel; completed resolution review.
- Emil Norby
County Administrator; completed resolution review and is named in the sponsor section.
- Adam Jarchow
Supervisor who cast the sole opposing vote in the signed roll call.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
A one-year moratorium bars data centers from being permitted, approved, or reviewed on land regulated under Chapter 42, including general zoning, shoreland, floodplain, Lower St. Croix Riverway, and overlay districts; it pauses accepting applications and granting permits or approvals for their placement or construction.
Sources
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