Worcester County Pauses Data Center Permits for a Year

Snow Hill, MD - Worcester County Commissioners have placed a temporary hold on new permits for data centers and cable landing stations. The pause took effect on July 21, 2026, and gives county staff time to study these facilities before allowing more of them in.

The move came through Resolution No. 26-18. It stops the county from accepting or approving new permit applications for these two types of facilities for up to 12 months, or until commissioners decide to lift it early.

County leaders say the goal is to build solid ground rules before more projects come knocking. Data centers and cable landing stations are still fairly new to the area, and officials want zoning rules in place that cover where they can go, how they operate, and what impact they may have on the community.

"We want to get this right," Commissioner President Ted Elder said. "Rather than reacting to future proposals, we're taking the time to evaluate the impacts of data centers and cable landing stations and develop thoughtful regulations that protect Worcester County while providing clear standards for future development."

The moratorium covers both new applications and ones already in the pipeline. That means any current requests tied to these facilities are on hold too.

Because of the pause, the Board of Zoning Appeals has nothing on its schedule right now involving data centers or cable landing stations. Any applications that were already submitted for BZA review will stay on hold until the moratorium ends.

Once county staff finish drafting the new zoning rules, the proposed legislation will go before the public for review and discussion. There is no set date for that yet.

In the meantime, county officials are encouraging residents to keep an eye on upcoming Commissioner meeting agendas. That will be the best way to stay in the loop as discussions on this topic move forward.