Site and permits
temporary structure permit
A temporary structure permit is local approval to place a structure on a site for a limited time. Some cities treat portable storage containers as temporary uses and set time limits instead of requiring a full permit. Names and rules differ by city, so the exact permit may have a different title.
Why it matters
New Orleans, for example, allows temporary storage containers used for loading or unloading for up to 14 days at homes and 72 hours at non-residential sites, or while an active building permit is in place, with no temporary use permit required. Its code bans using such containers for permanent storage. Other cities require a permit for any stay. A common mistake is to copy the rule from one town to another. Operators should keep a short list of rules for each city they serve. Customers who plan a longer stay should ask the local planning office first.
Read: Permits, zoning, and HOA rules for container rental operators
Definition source: czo.nola.gov
Related terms
zoning ordinance
A zoning ordinance is a local law that controls how land can be used and built on. It divides a city or county into districts and sets which uses, building sizes and activities are allowed in each. Los Angeles describes zoning as turning a city's goals into land use rules.
right-of-way permit
A right-of-way permit is local government permission to use public right-of-way, such as a street or the grass strip between the curb and sidewalk. Cities often require one before a storage container, dumpster or similar item sits there overnight. Rules, fees and time limits differ by city.
setback
A setback is the area between a property line and a building or structure where building is not allowed. Cornell's Legal Information Institute says it is measured from the property line to any structure, and it may include driveway areas or similar surface improvements. Local zoning sets the required distance.
HOA covenant
An HOA covenant is a rule in the recorded declaration of a homeowners association, often called CC&Rs for covenants, conditions and restrictions. It limits how owners may use their property. The rules bind all owners in the community and can cover things like parked vehicles, alterations and storage items.
portable storage container
A portable storage container is a container made for rent or sale as movable storage. NPSA describes portable storage containers as ISO shipping containers retired from international shipping and offered on the domestic market. In practice the term also covers other portable units.
on-site storage
On-site storage means keeping a portable storage container on the customer's own property, such as a driveway or a job site. The provider delivers the container, the customer loads and locks it, and the container stays there until the customer wants it moved or picked up.
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