Zoning cannot regulate the water system, but it can make the applicant, utility, and regulators answer the public's questions before approval.

PUBLIC QUESTION

APPLICANT DISCLOSURE

UTILITY + REGULATOR CHECK

ZONING DECISION

How much? Where from? What happens in a drought?

Require use estimate, source identification, cooling method

Capacity confirmation, Permit path, Contingency plan

Conditions, Phasing, Monitoring / reporting

Zoning usually cannot allocate water rights, set rates, or manage regional supply. It can require transparent, reviewable information.