North Tonawanda extends moratorium on cryptocurrency-mining and data-processing centers

North Tonawanda has extended its temporary moratorium on new cryptocurrency-mining and data-processing centers, continuing a pause on permit activity while the city develops zoning amendments and a regulatory framework for the uses.

The Common Council enacted the 12-month extension on June 17, 2026. Based on the city’s timeline, the temporary measure is expected to remain in place through approximately July 16, 2027.

What the extension covers

The moratorium applies to new cryptocurrency-mining and data-processing centers in the City of North Tonawanda. During the extension, the city is pausing the review, approval and issuance of permits for covered development.

The measure continues a moratorium first adopted through Local Law 2024-2 on July 16, 2024. That initial moratorium was scheduled to expire July 16, 2026. The extension allows the city to continue the temporary pause as it works on longer-term land-use rules.

The action does not establish a categorical ban on existing cryptocurrency-mining facilities or ordinary data centers. It also does not itself create permanent replacement zoning. Its immediate effect is to prevent new covered permit activity during the extension period.

Why the city cited the issues

City local-law materials cite several concerns associated with cryptocurrency-mining and data-processing centers, including excessive noise, environmental impacts and increased energy demand. They also identify possible strain on the electric grid, increased electricity costs and effects on neighborhood character and quality of life.

Those concerns affect the land-use questions facing residents, property owners, utilities and prospective developers. The extension gives the city additional time to consider how covered facilities should be regulated before new permit applications move forward.

The city said it needed more time to finalize zoning amendments and establish a regulatory framework for the uses. The mayor’s 2026 State of the City Address places that work within a broader redevelopment and code-modernization agenda, including the evaluation of major projects and development challenges facing North Tonawanda.

What happens next

The local law requires review involving the Niagara County Planning Board and adjacent municipalities when applicable. That review is part of the process as North Tonawanda develops zoning and regulatory controls for the covered uses.

For now, applicants seeking to develop new cryptocurrency-mining or data-processing centers face a continued pause on city permit review, approval and issuance. The extension is expected to run until approximately July 16, 2027, unless the city takes another action before then.