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Tucson staff propose zoning rules for large‑scale data centers, including definition, setbacks and public review
Summary
City planning staff outlined a draft code amendment that would define 'large‑scale data centers' (over 50,000 sq ft), require Mayor and Council review in heavy‑industrial zones or PAD/PCD processes, expand notice distances, and add standards on noise, generators, landscaping and parking; staff sought public feedback at a community meeting.
City of Tucson planning staff on Tuesday presented a draft zoning code amendment aimed at regulating large‑scale data centers, saying the change is intended to create clear standards for where and how very large server facilities could be built.
"Tonight's meeting is focused on a proposed update to our zoning code to create regulations for large scale data centers," Corin Manning, director of the Department of Planning and Development Services (PDSD), told attendees, saying the work follows Mayor and Council direction to prepare standards after a high‑profile proposal drew public attention.
The draft would classify a "large‑scale data center" as facilities (or contiguous facilities under common ownership) with a gross floor area greater than 50,000 square feet and housing networked computer and telecommunications equipment used for remote storage, processing and distribution of data. Staff said the floor‑area threshold is intended to capture hyperscale campuses and avoid developers splitting a campus into smaller buildings to evade rules.
Why it matters: staff emphasized zoning is the city's primary land‑use lever — it can set…
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