San Francisco hits pause on new data centers with 45-day moratorium

Introduction

San Francisco has put new data centers on hold due to concerns over their impact on neighborhoods. The city's Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a 45-day interim moratorium, which will halt new approvals and expansions until officials figure out the facilities' effects. The measure aims to address issues like energy use, water consumption, and pollution.

Background

San Francisco is not alone in this issue. Other California cities have already been down this road. Monterey Park moved to a permanent ban on data centers in May 2026, a reminder that temporary pauses can harden into something more lasting.

Implications

The key dates to watch are close. The Planning Department's report is due within 25 days, and the moratorium itself runs 45 days. What the planners recommend will indicate whether San Francisco intends to update its rulebook and reopen for business or follow Monterey Park toward a permanent ban.

Conclusion

If Oakland and Hayward's proposals advance, the Bay Area could end up with a patchwork of data center rules that developers will have to navigate city by city.