HomeLegal DirectoryManitowoc County WI Data Center Moratorium

In effect Limited protection

Manitowoc County, WI — 18-Month Data Center Moratorium

Manitowoc County, WI · Manitowoc County, WI 18-month data-center moratorium (April 28, 2026)

The Manitowoc County, Wisconsin Board unanimously voted April 28, 2026 to impose an 18-month moratorium barring the county from accepting applications or issuing permits for data-center construction while permanent regulations are developed. The moratorium was prompted by developer interest from the towns of Two Creeks, Two Rivers, and Mishicot.

Technical detail

Manitowoc County Board resolution adopted April 28, 2026 (unanimous vote). The ordinance prohibits the county from accepting applications or issuing permits for data-center construction or siting for 18 months, or until permanent data-center regulations are adopted, whichever is sooner. Applies to areas under county zoning authority. The Planning & Park Commission recommended the measure in March 2026.

Who is protected: Manitowoc County, WI residents and surrounding communities in county-zoned areas

Who must comply: Data-center developers seeking construction permits or siting approvals in Manitowoc County

Key facts

JurisdictionManitowoc County, WI
LevelCounty
StatusIn effect
Protection strengthLimited protection
Effective date2026-04-29
Enacted2026-04-28
CitationManitowoc County, WI 18-month data-center moratorium (April 28, 2026)
Enforced byManitowoc County / Planning & Park Commission
Private right of actionNo — agency enforcement only
PenaltiesPermit/application denial during the moratorium
Topicsdata-center siting and energy
Last verified2026-06-24
Official sourceManitowoc County Board approves 18-month data center moratorium — WPR ↗

Related data-center siting and energy rules elsewhere

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