Marion County adopts one-year moratorium on certain data‑center activity and approves energy-storage resolution

The Marion County Commission on Feb. 17, 2026 approved a one‑year moratorium that restricts certain data‑center and related energy‑storage activities in unincorporated parts of the county, effective March 1, 2026, and expiring March 1, 2027.

Commissioners discussed drafting language earlier in the month, including thresholds for generation and discharge; staff said the moratorium language excludes smaller facilities (for example, stand‑alone relay or small hosting facilities) and is intended to give planning and zoning staff time to prepare permanent rules. Speaker 5 said the draft adds a limitation “to facilities that reach in excess of 10 megawatts and discharge in excess of [threshold text shown],” and recommended adoption of a one‑year term beginning March 1, 2026 so the expiration date is clear.

Separately, the commission approved Resolution 202609 concerning a battery energy storage system. A commissioner moved to approve the resolution “as presented,” and the motion passed by voice vote. Staff indicated the resolution is ready for signature.

Why it matters: the temporary moratorium pauses permitting or discretionary approvals for larger data‑center and energy‑storage projects in the county’s unincorporated areas while staff and the planning commission prepare or refine permanent regulations. The battery‑storage resolution advances the county’s review of an identified project subject to the newly adopted standards.

What’s next: staff will return with finalized language and any associated planning documents; for the short‑term rental and wind‑energy text amendments the commission directed staff to provide clean drafts and legal clarification before a final vote.