Maryland Counties Halt Data Centers in 13 Moratoriums as Harford Imposes State's First Ban
Updated
Updated · Pennsylvania Capital-Star · Aug 18
Maryland Counties Halt Data Centers in 13 Moratoriums as Harford Imposes State's First Ban
3 articles · Updated · Pennsylvania Capital-Star · Aug 18
Summary
Thirteen Maryland counties have now enacted temporary pauses on data center development, while Harford County moved further in June by becoming the state's first to ban the facilities outright.
Community opposition has driven the shift, with residents and advocacy groups citing noise, diesel generators, environmental damage, strain on infrastructure, public health risks and already high electricity costs.
Montgomery recently stretched a six-month pause to 18 months, and Frederick halted new permits through year-end while it reviews rules for projects including the 2,100-acre Quantum Frederick campus.
County leaders say the moratoriums buy time for impact studies and local regulations, including a statewide analysis due to Gov. Wes Moore and lawmakers by Sept. 1.
The fight is widening beyond local zoning: industry groups warn counties could shut out a generational economic opportunity, while some activists say only permanent bans will satisfy residents.