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.
Sauk County
This restriction takes precedence while in effect. The rating below excludes temporary restrictions.
Pro-Data Center Policies
Sauk County’s enacted 18-month moratorium blocks new data-center applications and zoning approvals only where the county has zoning authority; it does not stop existing centers from operating.
Rating from Wisconsin statewide as there are no scored current or future laws outside temporary restrictions for Sauk County.
Specific to Sauk County only.
current law · County measure: Areas under Sauk County zoning authority; excludes cities and villagesWould impose an 18-month moratorium on accepting applications for and granting zoning permits or approvals for the siting, placement, or construction of data centers under both the 2017 and 2026 zoning codes, with no stated exceptions.Sauk County Ordinance ___-26 — 18-Month Data Center Zoning Moratorium (2026)
What this means
The 18-month moratorium would stop new data-center applications and zoning approvals for siting, placement, or construction, creating a major temporary barrier to building or expanding facilities (moratorium terms). It would apply only where the county has zoning authority and would not itself stop existing centers from operating (scope of the moratorium).
Timing
- Ends
- 18 months from the ordinance's publication/effective date, or earlier if the County Board rescinds the moratorium or adopts amendments to the ordinance
The sources do not provide a publication date from which to calculate a calendar expiration date.
People behind it
- Land Resources and Extension Committee
Offered the ordinance.
- County legal counsel
Drafted the measure.
- Sauk County staff
Will research data centers and develop recommendations on future regulation during the moratorium.
Restrictions & requirementsHide restrictions & requirements1
The ordinance bars accepting applications and granting zoning permits or approvals for the siting, placement, or construction of data centers for 18 months from its effective date, unless the County Board amends the ordinance or ends the moratorium sooner. It applies under both the prior and reenacted Sauk County Chapter 7 zoning codes.
Sources
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