Data crunch: Planning Commission hears proposals for new data center zoning code
News Clip1:41KGUN9·Tucson, Pima County, AZ·5/7/2026
Tucson officials are considering new zoning regulations for large data centers due to concerns about their impact on water and energy resources. The City of Tucson's Planning Commission heard proposals for new rules including noise limits, setbacks, water limits, and energy requirements. A public hearing on the proposed zoning codes is scheduled for June 3rd.
zoningenvironmentalgovernmentelectricitywateropposition
Gov: City of Tucson Planning Commission, Tucson City Council
The City of Tucson's Planning Commission met at City Hall to discuss potential future zoning regulations for the data center industry. Downtown reporter Eddie Soliah covered the meeting, noting the controversial nature of data centers in the area.
City staff presented proposals for new zoning codes that would include noise limits, setbacks from residential and commercial areas, as well as specific water and energy requirements. The discussion highlighted the critical importance of water conservation in the desert city.
The Planning Commission did not make any decisions or take votes at this meeting. However, a public hearing on the proposed zoning codes is scheduled for June 3rd, which will be open to the public.