Storing big items outside your home

Storing big items outside your home
Posted on 05/03/2021

Whether there’s a storage container or a boat in your driveway, make sure you’re following City codes when storing large items outdoors.

Portable storage containers

As the weather warms, residents often find it’s a great time to tackle a big remodeling project or move to a new home.

Temporary portable storage containers are a convenient way to safely store property during these projects. Before you rent one of these units, take note of a few regulations:

  • You can have a temporary storage container on your property for up to a total of 30 days in the calendar year.
  • You must place the storage container on a paved surface. The container may not obstruct any city right-of-way or sidewalks, or be placed in the street.
  • The maximum allowable size for portable storage containers is 160 square feet. The container may only be up to 20 feet long and up to 8 feet high.

Boats, trailers and RVs

If you’ve purchased a boat or RV to enjoy in the summer months or have a trailer, make sure you’re storing them in the right spot for the right amount of time.

  • You must park your recreational vehicles in your side or rear yard, behind the building line and screened from view (with a few exceptions).
  • They may be parked in your driveway for up to four days a month. If you need to park in your driveway for more than a few days, you must first obtain a Temporary Parking Permit.
  • You are limited to the number of such items on your property based on your zoning and lot size.
  • Boats, trailers and RVs must remain in operable condition.

Questions? Contact our Community Standards Division at 913.477.7500.


Published May 3, 2021