Data Center Town Code Review and Zoning Clarification
Summary
The council banned standalone data centers from Oro Valley zoning districts while allowing small ancillary data uses attached to existing businesses. Residents pushed for a full ban over a permit-based approach, citing limited land, water and power demands, and minimal tax benefit. Future councils may study whether a conditional use permit process is needed.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 9
- Last 30 days
- 8
Rising — discussed at 3 meetings since Oct 7, 2026, up from 0 in the two months before.
Impact analysis
Data centers would bring only temporary construction sales tax and a 4% utility tax — the town's smallest revenue source — since Oro Valley has no property tax.
Residents who want the town's limited land, water, and character protected from large AI-support data centers.
Data center developers and any property owners hoping to sell commercial or tech-park land to them.
Mentions & discussions (6)
Oro Valley prohibits stand-alone data centers
Stand-alone data centers are officially prohibited in Oro Valley commercial and technical park zoning districts, according to a code amendment adopted unanimously by the town council on Oct. 28.
Marana approves tougher noise rules for data centers
The Marana Town Council approved zoning rules requiring data centers to meet new noise limits, including low-frequency sound, before they open.
Town Council Special Session — October 28, 2026
The council banned standalone data centers from Oro Valley zoning districts while allowing small ancillary data uses attached to existing businesses. Residents pushed for a full ban over a permit-based approach, citing limited land, water and power demands, and minimal tax benefit. Future councils may study whether a conditional use permit process is needed.
OV would ban ‘large-scale’ data centers
Oro Valley is prepared to adopt zoning code amendments regulating data centers, to include a prohibition of all “large-scale” data centers using 20MW of power or more.
Planning & Zoning Commission Special Session (Special) — October 27, 2026
Oro Valley's current code allows data centers of any size by right in commercial and tech park zones. The proposed amendments would ban hyperscale facilities (20+ megawatts), require conditional use permits for smaller ones, and impose water, energy, noise, and setback standards. The commission's recommendation now goes to Town Council.
Town Council Regular Session — October 7, 2026
The council moved swiftly to review town codes and prevent data centers from being established by right in any zoning district. An expedited review schedule was established for late October to enact clear restrictions.
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