EXPLORESmart Cities Dive · 1d ago
As data center backlash grows, a model law aims to give cities more control

Executive Brief
The 30-second read
Climate Mayors has introduced a model local law to help municipalities manage the rapid expansion of data centers. This framework provides executive guidance on siting, permitting, and community benefit agreements to mitigate local backlash.
- 01New legislative framework addresses data center growth exceeding current local zoning and code capacities
- 02Model law establishes standardized protocols for site selection and permitting processes
- 03Enhanced transparency requirements aim to improve corporate relations with local government stakeholders
- 04Framework includes structured guidelines for negotiating community benefits and environmental impacts
Go deeper · Explore playbook
London Business News: Executive Guide →AI-generated summary · Verify at source
Data centers “are moving faster and at a larger scale than most local codes were built to handle,” Climate Mayors’ executive director said. Its model local law offers a framework for siting, permitting, transparency and community benefits.