Oro Valley Moves to Ban Large Data Centers, Hearing Set for Tonight
Oro Valley is considering zoning amendments that would prohibit large-scale data centers using 20 megawatts or more of electricity. A public hearing is scheduled before the Town Council, with proposed rules also addressing energy use, water consumption, noise, and conditional-use approvals.
Oro Valley officials are considering a zoning-code overhaul that would effectively ban large-scale data centers requiring at least 20 megawatts of power, while allowing smaller server rooms inside existing buildings. The Town Council scheduled a public hearing after the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed draft language, which would also require conditional-use approval, energy reporting, and water-use and conservation plans.
The proposal follows concerns raised by Vice Mayor and Mayor-elect Melanie Barrett about zoning loopholes and the potential strain data centers could place on electricity and water supplies. Oro Valley has not received an application for a large-scale data center, but staff identified several commercial and technical-park areas that could accommodate one. The debate comes as Tucson and Pima County consider their own restrictions amid broader concerns about Arizona's growing data-center power and water demand.