ESCONDIDO — The city has extended its temporary ban on artificial intelligence data centers for another 10 months.
The Escondido City Council unanimously approved a 10-month, 15-day extension on Oct. 7 at the request of city staff, continuing a prohibition on building new AI data centers.
The council previously approved a 45-day moratorium on Aug. 26 that was set to expire Oct. 10, requiring staff to return to the council to request an extension before that date.
City Planner Garrett Smith said the moratorium is a proactive measure rather than a response to any specific projects. The city has not received any data center applications and has no pending projects.
“It’s really just a matter of getting out in front of the issue before we see a request,” Smith said.
Smith said staff will continue researching international best practices. If necessary, the city could extend the ban for another 12 months after the current 10-month, 15-day extension expires Aug. 22, 2027.
“I really appreciate the proactive approach that we’re taking,” said Councilmember Judy Fitzgerald.
Data centers have become a growing concern nationwide as communities grapple with their effects on electricity supplies, water resources, land use and surrounding neighborhoods.
Escondido city staff has raised concerns about increased water and electricity demand, strain on the power grid, large development footprints, persistent noise from cooling systems and backup generators, and greater demand for public services associated with data centers.
In early 2026, data centers used about 1,000 megawatts, representing 2% of peak electricity demand within the California Independent System Operator’s territory, according to the California Energy Commission. The commission projects that demand will reach 4,500 megawatts, or 9% of peak demand, by 2040.
Data centers also generate less tax revenue and fewer jobs than other industrial uses occupying similarly sized properties, according to city staff.
