# Planning and Zoning Data Center Legislation Discussion - October 26, 2026


**Body:** Memphis City Council
**Date:** October 25, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Information Technology, Construction & Infrastructure, Digital Infrastructure, Regulatory Compliance


The Memphis City Council Planning and Zoning Committee held a public listening session on data center legislation on October 26, 2026. Members discussed a previously approved 135-day pause on issuing permits for new data centers while city staff develop zoning regulations. Proposed considerations include siting facilities away from homes, schools, parks, waterways, and other sensitive areas; addressing noise, air quality, water use, and other resource impacts; and potentially directing large facilities toward heavy-industrial areas. No contract awards, procurement approvals, or spending votes were taken at this meeting.

Public commenters called for stronger transparency and community involvement, environmental protections, and community benefits that could include local jobs, resident ownership, or a share of ongoing profits. Council members said the city’s authority to collect revenue or require contributions may depend on state legislation, and the committee planned to discuss community benefits further at a scheduled Thursday hearing. Members also said public hearings and coordination with the mayor’s separate review process would continue; a new city webpage was announced as a hub for meeting videos and documents.

**Source:** Memphis City Council