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Storage Container Pre-Delivery Checklist

Check every box before your container is delivered. Print it, save it, or work through it on-screen. Free — no signup required.

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📍 Step 1 — Know Your Jurisdiction

Confirmed whether address is in an incorporated city or unincorporated county area Use your county's parcel viewer or call 311. This determines which agency's rules apply.
Identified the correct permit office Usually: City Dept. of Public Works, Transportation, or Building & Safety. Search "[city name] street use permit."
Confirmed whether my street is a city, county, or state-maintained road Numbered state routes require a state DOT permit, not a city permit. Most residential streets are city streets.

🏛 Step 2 — City / County Permit Check

Called or searched the city's municipal code to confirm driveway permit requirement Ask: "Do I need a permit for a portable storage container in my driveway for [X days]?"
If street placement: applied for street use / ROW / encroachment permit Required in virtually every US city. Apply at least 48–72 hours before delivery. Fee: $35–$150.
Permit confirmed and payment received Have the permit number and confirmation on hand when the container arrives.
Noted permit expiration date and scheduled pickup before that date Build in a buffer day. Contact the permit office proactively if you need an extension.

🏘 Step 3 — HOA Check (Skip if No HOA)

Read CC&Rs and Rules & Regulations for container / temporary structure language Search for: "portable storage," "temporary structure," "storage container," "commercial equipment."
Checked ARC Guidelines for any approval requirement Even if CC&Rs don't explicitly ban containers, ARC guidelines may require prior approval for any "temporary structure visible from the street."
If approval required: submitted written ARC request at least 10–14 days before delivery Include: container company, size, placement location, dates, and reason for use.
Received written HOA approval (email confirmation is fine) Never proceed based on verbal approval alone. Written confirmation protects you.

📐 Step 4 — Placement Planning

Confirmed container will not block fire hydrant (15 ft minimum clearance) No exceptions — even with a permit. Blocking a hydrant is an immediate removal situation.
Confirmed placement does not block accessible curb ramps or sidewalk access ADA accessibility violations carry elevated fines with no grace period in most cities.
Measured container dimensions against available space Standard PODS: 8×8×8 ft or 8×8×16 ft. Confirm the delivery truck can access the placement location.
Checked for overhead utility lines, tree branches, and clearance hazards Delivery trucks are tall. Low-hanging lines or branches can prevent or damage delivery.
Confirmed placement won't block neighbor's driveway access Even if technically on your property or the ROW, blocking neighbor access creates civil disputes and possible complaints.

🚚 Step 5 — Delivery Day

Permit displayed on or near the container as required by your city Print the permit and attach it, or display the permit number visibly. Confirm your city's specific display requirement.
Reflective markings / warning lights in place (street placement) Many cities require reflective tape on container corners and amber warning lights for overnight street placement.
Container company's contact information confirmed for pickup scheduling Know the pickup scheduling number before delivery so you can call immediately if plans change.

✅ Step 6 — Closeout

Pickup scheduled before permit expiration date Build in a day of buffer. The permit clock runs from delivery, not from when you start loading.
Permit closed / cancelled with issuing office after container removed (where applicable) Some cities require formal permit closure. Others auto-expire. Check with your permit office.
Area restored — no debris, damage to curb or driveway surface from container placement Document condition before and after delivery with photos. Most container companies are responsible for damage caused by their equipment.
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Informational only. This checklist provides general guidance. Rules vary by jurisdiction. Always verify current requirements with your local permitting authority. Not legal advice.