Pima County proposes data center rules after moratorium enactment
Pima County is proposing new regulations for data centers, including requirements for closed-loop water cooling and certified water/energy supply. This follows the recent approval of a 120-day moratorium on new data centers. The county is collecting public input on these proposed changes, with an online survey and an upcoming virtual meeting.
Pima County is actively pursuing new data center regulations for its zoning code, a move that comes just days after the approval of a 120-day moratorium on new data center developments. The county recently hosted an open house in downtown Tucson to gather public input on these proposed changes.
According to News 4 Tucson's Jacob Owens, the proposed rules would introduce specific requirements for data centers, which currently are only permitted in areas zoned for the most intensive industrial use. Key restrictions would mandate the use of closed-loop water cooling systems, allowing for water recirculation and reuse, and require projects to demonstrate certified access to adequate water and energy supplies. Joseph Fett, an attendee at the open house, expressed support for the closed-loop cooling requirement, stating it represents a common-sense approach to development in Arizona.
Pima County staff have indicated that approximately 1,200 individuals have already provided feedback through an online survey. A virtual public meeting is also planned to discuss the proposed rules, with details regarding its exact timing still being finalized.