On July 20, 2026, the West Chicago City Council unanimously approved a 180-day temporary moratorium on new data centers and battery energy storage systems, commonly called BESS. The pause gives the City time to study these uses, gather public input, and consider whether updated zoning rules are needed.
The moratorium was established through Ordinance No. 26-O-0011 and applies in all zoning districts.
Growing Interest and Community Concerns
Data centers and battery energy storage systems are being proposed throughout the Chicago region. As interest in these projects has grown, many nearby communities have begun reviewing how they should be regulated.
Common concerns include demands on the electrical grid and water supply, noise, fire safety, emergency response needs, environmental effects, and compatibility with nearby properties. Communities are also considering the amount of land these facilities require, the number and types of jobs they create, and whether their public benefits are balanced with their possible impacts.
These questions have led several communities to pause new approvals while they study the uses and consider appropriate local regulations. West Chicago’s temporary moratorium provides the same opportunity for careful review and public discussion.
Purpose of the Temporary Pause
West Chicago’s current zoning rules do not fully address the unique features of data centers and battery energy storage systems. The moratorium preserves current conditions while the City determines whether additional regulations are needed to protect the community and support its long-term goals.
During the 180-day period, the City will study potential local impacts, review regulations used by other communities, and consult with experts, partner agencies, emergency responders, property owners, industry representatives, and the public. Staff will use this information to prepare findings and recommendations for discussion by the City Council or its Development Committee.
The moratorium does not mean the City has decided to prohibit or approve these uses. The City Council may also extend or end the moratorium before the 180-day period is complete.
Effect on New and Existing Projects
During the moratorium, the City generally will not grant final permits or approvals for new data centers or battery energy storage systems. An applicant may submit a proposal during this period, but the applicant does so at their own risk. Final approval cannot be granted until the moratorium ends or is lifted, and the proposal must meet the regulations in effect at that time.
Projects that received City approval before the ordinance took effect may continue. Complete applications submitted before the effective date may also continue through the review process.
This includes the project currently under construction on Washington Street, which is not affected by the moratorium. Certain maintenance, repairs, and improvements to existing facilities may also continue.
Limited Process for Previously Discussed Projects
The ordinance provides a limited review process for certain projects that had been discussed with the City before the moratorium took effect. This applies only to:
- An existing data center whose owner or operator previously notified the City of plans to expand
- A proposed BESS whose owner or operator previously notified the City of plans to develop a property
In either case, the proposed use must be permitted in the property’s zoning district.
Eligibility does not provide automatic approval. The applicant must submit a written request, comply with all other City requirements, and receive approval from the City Council. All other proposed projects remain subject to the moratorium.
Community Input Will Inform the Review
The City invites residents, businesses, property owners, emergency responders, utility providers, industry representatives, and other interested stakeholders to help shape its approach.
The City will also host a Special City Council meeting where community members can learn more, ask questions, and express their views:
Monday, August 10 at 6:30pm
West Chicago City Hall
475 Main Street, West Chicago
Public comments will help the City understand community priorities and prepare recommendations for consideration by the City Council.
