Attachment K - Comparison of Data Center Regulations(PDF, 101KB)

Comparison of Data Center Regulations
Regulatory Area
Chandler
Marana
Phoenix
Mesa
Definition
Broad definition; networked 
systems, telecom, data 
storage/processing
Broad; servers, utilities, digital data 
management
Includes only primary-use facilities; 
small owner-only uses excluded
Very broad; includes advanced 
operations (AI, blockchain, crypto, 
modeling)
Where Allowed
Principal use only in PAD; accessory 
with limits
Principal via Specific Plan; 
accessory in LI/HI
Only select zones with Special 
Permit
Principal via PAD Overlay; accessory 
allowed under conditions
Community Input
Neighborhood notice + meetings 
required
Neighborhood notice required
Noise mitigation required near 
residential; no formal meetings
PAD review includes input; not 
explicitly required
Noise Requirements
Baseline + post-construction + 
annual monitoring; mitigation; 
liaison
Baseline + post-construction + 
annual monitoring; max levels by 
use
Noise study within 300 ft of 
residential; mitigation required; max 
5% increase
General operational compliance; 
enforcement tied to occupancy
Site & Building Design
Setbacks, screened equipment, 
landscaping, architectural 
treatments
Setbacks, screening, underground 
utilities, landscape buffers, building 
mass/height limits
Setbacks (150 ft mechanical), 
landscape buffers, façade 
treatments, streetscape, shaded 
paths
Setbacks, PAD standards, 
landscape buffers, massing/façade 
treatments; flexible via PAD
Backup Power / 
Generators
Restricted hours, notice, sound 
mitigation
Diesel Tier IV, emergency use, 
limited hours
Screened/setback; must meet noise 
limits
Covered under operational/PAD 
review
Utilities / Water
Considered during PAD review
Must demonstrate adequate 
electricity/water; potable water 
prohibited for cooling
“Will-serve” letter; water source 
documentation
Reviewed during PAD/special 
approval
Parking & Transportation
Not specified in code amendment
Not specified in code amendment
Minimum distance from transit; 
streetscape/shaded paths
Minimum parking ratios defined
Enforcement
Conditional on PAD + ongoing noise 
monitoring
Compliance tied to Specific Plan; 
annual monitoring
Certificate of occupancy conditional 
on noise compliance
Civil penalties; escalating fines for 
repeat violations; habitual offenders 
may face criminal charges
Attachment K