Tucson residents push for stricter data center rules
Tucson residents are pushing for stricter data center regulations than those currently proposed by the City Planning Commission. The commission is developing new rules addressing water and energy use, noise limits, and buffer zones, but residents believe they are insufficient. The commission voted to incorporate public comments and energy updates into its next set of recommendations to the city council.
The City of Tucson Planning Commission held a public hearing on June 3 to discuss proposed regulations for data centers, drawing strong feedback from residents who argued the rules were not strict enough. While Tucson currently has no large-scale data centers, the city aims to proactively establish guidelines for future development, opting against an outright ban which officials believe would be legally challenged. The proposed regulations cover extensive public review, noise limits, battery backup, water and power supply disclosure, a ban on potable water for cooling, and enhanced landscaping buffers.
The commission unanimously voted to integrate public comments and updated energy considerations into its next recommendations for the city council. Residents consistently voiced concerns about water availability, strain on the power grid, and general opposition to data centers, advocating for stricter buffer zones and notification requirements. Notable speakers included Nick Maya from the Coalition for Sonoran Desert Protection, who supported the amendments but sought further provisions like decommissioning language, and Vivek Bharathan, who highlighted "overwhelming" community opposition and called for broader notification to renters.
Adria Brooks, a member of the Technical Advisory Committee, criticized specific language in the proposed regulations, particularly concerning the exclusive use of natural gas generators for backup power and the proposed prohibition on load shifting. She suggested requiring backup generators to prioritize low-emitting alternatives, mandating two hours of battery use before high-emitting generation, and allowing data centers to disconnect from the grid upon utility request. Commissioner Valerie Lane acknowledged community opposition and suggested that community development agreements, similar to those seen in other cities, could fund local benefits like residential solar or graywater harvesting. The city council initially requested the code amendment to address gaps in August 2025.