San Antonio implements case-by-case approval for data centers

The San Antonio City Council has approved new regulations requiring data center developers to obtain specific use authorization on a case-by-case basis rather than being allowed to build by right. The 9-2 vote establishes that every proposed data center must receive final approval from the council to ensure coordination with the community.

Under the new policy, approved data centers will be restricted to commercial or industrial zones. This decision follows discussions regarding the impact of these energy- and water-intensive facilities on local infrastructure and community living standards. While more than 30 data centers currently operate in San Antonio, approximately 40 more are proposed for the coming years.