News and Project Information

Data Center and Cryptocurrency Standards in Morton County

In September, 2024 Morton County adopted a moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities. This means that none of these facilities may be permitted in the County until the County develops and adopts siting and performance standards for these facilities. A moratorium cannot continue indefinitely. A Data Center Model Ordinance Working Group, completed a model ordinance for the state in January 2026. That working group consisted of representation from the ND League of Cities, ND Association of Counties, ND Planning Association, utility interests, and data center industry advocates/Applied Digital.

Morton County Planning & Zoning staff presented drafts of data center specific use standards at the February 25 and March 25 regular meetings of the Planning & Zoning Commission. A revised draft will be available at the April 22, 2026 regular meeting of the Planning & Zoning Commission. Any member of the public interested in providing comments may do so during the public hearing. In order for written comments to be included in the meeting packet, comments must be received by the Planning & Zoning department by end of day Tuesday, April 21.