Community Meeting on Large-Scale Data Centers Zoning March 5, 2026

The City of Tucson held a community meeting on March 5, 2026, to discuss proposed zoning regulations for large-scale data centers. The meeting focused on establishing clear land use standards and a public review process to address community concerns such as water and energy consumption, noise, setbacks, and environmental impacts. City staff presented the proposed regulations, including a 50,000 square foot threshold for large-scale data centers, location restrictions primarily within industrial zones, and requirements for public notification and hearings. The city also highlighted the recently adopted large quantity water user ordinance, which sets water use thresholds and conservation requirements for large users, including data centers. Public feedback was actively solicited through surveys and comment cards, with many attendees expressing concerns about water resource sustainability, enforcement of regulations, and the overall appropriateness of data centers in Tucson. The city plans to present the community input to the mayor and council in an upcoming study session and continue the regulatory process with further hearings and consideration.