What Are the Rules for Portable Storage Containers?

Whether you're scheduling a PODS delivery, setting a shipping container in your backyard, or parking a U-Pack ReloCube at the curb — the rules governing where it can go, how long it can stay, and whether you need a permit vary dramatically depending on your city, county, state, and whether you live in an HOA community.

There is no single federal rule. What's perfectly legal in rural Tennessee (no permit, no time limit on private property) can get you a fine in Los Angeles (permit required even for your own driveway, 7-day limit). The rules exist in four overlapping layers:

  1. State law — sets baseline authority but rarely regulates containers directly
  2. County zoning — defines what structures and uses are allowed on residential land
  3. City or municipal code — the most common source of container-specific rules (permits, time limits, street encroachment fees)
  4. HOA CC&Rs — private rules that can be stricter than everything above, and are fully enforceable

This site maps those rules so you know what you're dealing with before the delivery truck arrives.

⚠ Before You Schedule Delivery Check your city's public works or planning department for the most current permit requirements. Rules change. This site provides general guidance — always verify with your local authority.

The Most Common Questions

Do I need a permit for a storage container in my driveway? In most cities, no permit is required for a container on private property (your driveway) for a short duration (under 7–14 days). But many cities — including much of California, the Chicago metro area, and parts of the Northeast — do require a driveway permit or at least prior notification. Some cities cap container size even on private property.

Do I need a permit for a container on the street? Yes, almost always. Placing any object — including a PODS container — in a public right-of-way (the street or sidewalk) requires a street use or encroachment permit in virtually every US municipality. Fees typically range from $35 to $150 for a 7-day placement.

Can my HOA tell me I can't have a storage container? Yes. HOA CC&Rs can and frequently do prohibit portable storage containers entirely, or require advance written approval from the architectural review committee. Even if your city allows it, your HOA can override that. See our full HOA guide.

How long can a PODS container stay? On the street, typically 7–14 days (sometimes extendable). On private property, rules vary more widely — some cities set 30-day limits, others have no time limit. See our duration guide by state.

Read the Full How-It-Works Guide →