Tucson Planning Commission has more questions about proposed data center regulations

The Tucson Planning Commission held a public hearing to review proposed regulations for large-scale data centers within city limits, prompted by the ongoing "Project Blue" development in unincorporated Pima County. While Project Blue itself, which had city water access denied, remains unaffected by these city regulations, officials are working to establish standards for future facilities.

Key aspects of the proposed regulations include defining large-scale data centers as facilities over 25,000 square feet or using more than 20 megawatts of energy. These facilities would not be permitted by right and would require an enhanced public review process, including neighborhood meetings and decisions by the Mayor and Council. Concerns raised during the public comment period by residents like April Putney focused on public health, noise levels, building setbacks, and water usage. The Commission recommended changes to address these issues, including increased separation from residential areas, a 50-foot height limit, and expanded landscaping requirements.

The city previously adopted a Large Quantity Water User Ordinance in August 2025, requiring plans for significant water users to be approved by the Mayor and Council. The Planning Commission will hold another public hearing for staff review in approximately 45 days before advancing the proposed standards to the Mayor and Council for a final hearing and review this summer.