Planning & Community Development

Zoning Permits: Temporary Structures
(PODS, Smartbox, etc.)

PERMIT FAQ's

REQUIREMENTS

APPLICATION

The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) requires a zoning permit be obtained prior to placing a temporary accessory structure on property in the City of Suffolk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are temporary accessory structures?
A. They include Portable On Demand Storage (PODS®), Smartbox and other containers for temporary storage and temporary construction bins for trash and debris while there is ongoing construction work.

Q. Accessory Structure Permit cover multiple containers?
A. One on-line permit covers a maximum of two 8 x 8 x 16 temporary storage containers or a maximum of three 8 x 8 x 5 temporary storage containers.

Q. How long does the Temporary Accessory Structure Permit last?
A. For a residential property the permit is good for thirty (30) days from the date of issuance. For a non-residential property the permit is good for ninety (90) days from the date of issuance.

Q. Can the Temporary Accessory Structure Permit be renewed?
A. This permit may be extended within five business days before expiration for reasonable circumstances as determined by the Zoning Administrator or designee. You must come to the office for the extension. Once this permit expires it cannot be extended. A new permit must be obtained and the appropriate fee will apply.

Q. Who can buy the Temporary Accessory Structure Permit?
A. Only a qualified party may obtain a permit. A qualified party is the property owner(s), someone who has Power of Attorney for the owner(s) or someone who has written permission from the owner(s).

Q. Where should the Permit be posted?
A. Post the permit on the front of the property where City Inspectors can see it from the roadway.

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Requirements

Residential or Residential Use:
Your setbacks are five feet (5') from your property line.

• Cannot encroach on City property or City right of way.
• Cannot encroach on other property.
• Cannot be a sight obstruction to vehicular or pedestrian traffic. If placed in a front yard, must be located on an asphalt, concrete, or gravel driveway.
• Cannot be placed in easements.
• Cannot be placed on a sidewalk.
• Cannot be placed in the street.

Non-Residential:
Your setbacks are five feet (5') from your property line. We strongly encourage you to place your temporary accessory structure in the rear of your property.

• Cannot encroach on City property or City right of way.
• Cannot encroach on other property.
• Cannot be a sight obstruction to vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
• Cannot impede vehicular ingress/egress to site.
• Cannot impede emergency site requirements such as fire lane, emergency doors, emergency parking, handicapped parking, etc.
• Cannot be placed in easements.
• Cannot be placed on a sidewalk.
• Cannot be placed in the street.