---
title: "zoning ordinance: Definition and Meaning | NPSA"
description: "A zoning ordinance is a local law that controls how land can be used and built on."
url: https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/zoning-ordinance
publisher: National Portable Storage Association (NPSA)
phone: "(816) 960-6552"
email: info@npsa.org
---

Site and permits

# 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.

## Why it matters

Zoning decides whether a storage container may sit on a lot, for how long and in which district. A rule that fits a farm may not fit a residential street. Some cities allow short stays for loading and unloading and ban long-term use. New Orleans, for example, has separate time limits for homes and non-residential sites. A common mistake is to assume that a container needs no approval because it is movable. Operators who serve a new town should read its zoning code or call the planning office. Customers should do the same before they order.

[Read: Permits, zoning, and HOA rules for container rental operators](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/guides/permits-zoning-hoa-for-operators)

Definition source: [planning.lacity.gov](https://planning.lacity.gov/zoning/local-zoning-rules)

## Related terms

[### 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.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/setback)[### 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.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/temporary-structure-permit)[### 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.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/hoa-covenant)[### 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.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/right-of-way-permit)[### site preparation Site preparation is the work done on a spot before a container arrives. It includes clearing the access path, checking overhead room, making the ground firm and fairly level, and sometimes adding a gravel or stone base. The goal is a safe drop and a unit that sits flat.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/site-preparation)

[All 220 terms](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary)

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