City of Tucson considers new zoning rules for large-scale data centers amid water and energy concerns
News ClipKGUN 9·Tucson, Pima County, AZ·3/6/2026
The City of Tucson is considering new zoning rules for large-scale data centers that would require them to prove they have adequate water and electricity supplies before breaking ground. The proposed rules would apply to data centers over 50,000 square feet, and include requirements around water use and renewable energy sources. There is some opposition from local groups concerned about the City's ability to support large data centers.
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Gov: City of Tucson
The City of Tucson is considering new zoning rules for large-scale data centers amid concerns over water and energy usage. The proposed rules would set standards for facilities over 50,000 square feet, requiring them to demonstrate sustainable water use and renewable energy sources. Some residents, like the No Desert Data Center Coalition, have raised concerns about the city's capacity to support such facilities and the enforceability of the proposed rules. The city plans to gather public feedback and the planning commission will review the proposal before the mayor and city council make a decision in May.