SCOTTSDALE — Scottsdale is drafting a large water users ordinance aimed at softening the impact of Colorado River shortages, with tiered requirements for new heavy users, KTAR News reported.
Under the proposal presented at a Sept. 22 council work session, new businesses using more than 100,000 gallons a day would have to submit conservation plans. Those above 250,000 gallons would need an economic impact analysis, and those over 500,000 gallons would require extra review and a council vote. The rules would apply only to new users and, for the first time, would include penalties for violating a conservation plan.
The city has 12 large water users today, none above 500,000 gallons a day. They include two hospitals and six multifamily and homeowners associations in the 100,000-to-250,000 range, plus an HOA and a resort between 250,000 and 500,000. Homes accounted for more than 80% of Scottsdale’s water use in 2025.
Mayor Lisa Borowsky said she would like new large users to bring their own water supply, though City Attorney Luis Santaella cautioned that might conflict with the city’s 100-year assured water supply designation. Councilman Adam Kwasman voiced concern the ordinance could end up regulating homeowners. The council is awaiting final language before voting.
Sources: KTAR News. Thee Arizona Times uses AI-assisted reporting reviewed against the sources listed.
Photo: Domenico Convertini from Zurich, Schweiz / CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
