Pasadena Planning Commission to Take Up Data Centers in Study Session Wednesday

The Pasadena Planning Commission is scheduled to hold an informational study session on Wednesday to discuss data centers, a land use currently undefined and therefore not permitted under the city's Zoning Code. Acting Planning Director Jason Mikaelian stated in a report that establishing a clear land use definition is necessary to avoid ambiguous interpretations, even if data centers remain unpermitted.

Staff has presented draft language that would categorize data centers as either "Limited" (under 5,000 square feet, less than one megawatt, 50 gallons/minute water use) or "General" (one megawatt or more, over 50 gallons/minute water use, or one acre or larger site). The report also suggests potential locations in industrial and commercial-flex zones, as well as allowing institutions like Caltech to host data centers as an accessory use. Proposed development standards include requirements for power, parking, security, noise buffers, and height limits. Pasadena Municipal Code Section 13.04.75 already mandates long-term contracts with Pasadena Water and Power for new customers seeking 10 megawatts or more of electric service.

Concerns regarding data centers, particularly larger facilities, were previously raised by the Housing, Homelessness, and Planning Committee, citing potential strains on water and power resources, political challenges, and limited community benefits. The report also notes that other California cities like Monterey Park have banned data centers, while Montebello, El Monte, and Baldwin Park have enacted temporary moratoriums. This study session is for informational purposes only; no vote or recommendation will be made, and further analysis and public hearings will precede any potential zoning code amendment or permitting decision.