Below is an overview of the main rules and regulations around using a shipping container on your land for storage or work in the state of Texas. We are by no means authorities in this regard, so we encourage you to do your own research. If you would like to contribute any of your knowledge in this field to this article, please contact us.
Generally, shipping containers that are used for the storage of equipment and objects are considered as 'equipment', not 'structures' under national regulations. This means that shipping containers for storage do not come under the guidelines of the International Building Codes, which makes life much easier.
Technically speaking, a shipping container that is used for storage is first categorized as a portable storage unit used for the shipping and/or storage and transportation of materials, inventory, or products, and is then constructed. It should be placed directly on the ground without a foundation, have no wheels or axle, and have no utilities connected to it.
If the shipping container is to be fixed permanently to footings or foundations, this may change its classification away from equipment to a structure, and permits might be required depending on which area of the country you live in. There are also certain cities, depending on the intended use and specific location, that may require permits to be used, even if the shipping container is only to be used for storage.
Before buying, renting, or putting a shipping container on your land, it is always a good idea to talk to your local building or planning department to understand what the restrictions might be in your area. Like many things in this country, regulations and guidelines are set on a State, County or City level and do vary. State of Texas: Houston: The City of Houston does not have zoning regulations and as such does not have any regulations regarding where shipping containers can or cannot be used for storage. Local neighbourhoods or homeowners’ associations (if residential) may have their own regulations. San Antonio: As with the rest of Texas, shipping containers for storage can be used in construction sites in San Antonio without needing a permit. This is also the case for a lot, but not all, of commercially zoned land. It is important to check with the Development Services Department as they may require you to make alterations to the container (which as hiding the walls for view) or assign a specific location on your land to put the container to minimise public view. Local neighbourhoods or homeowners’ associations (if residential) may have their own regulations. Shipping containers for portable storage are allowed without a permit for use on any permitted construction site. Dallas: Dallas has no specific rules for or against the use of shipping containers as storage. However, it is a good idea to consult with the planning department prior to installation. Local neighbourhoods or homeowners’ associations (if residential) may have their own regulations. Shipping containers for portable storage are allowed without a permit for use on any permitted construction site. Fort Worth: Shipping containers for permanent storage are allowed in non-residential zones of Fort Worth but must be placed at the back of the building (furthest from the street) and cannot be placed on required parking spaces. Shipping containers for permanent storage are not allowed in residential zones. A building permit is likely to be required for new accessory structures on commercial properties. Shipping containers for portable storage are allowed without a permit for use on any permitted construction site. Austin: The City of Austin allows shipping containers for use as storage or as an accessory structure. The city follows the 2021 IBC guidelines and there may be a requirement to submit plans beforehand or to have foundations if the use of the container is to be permanent. Check with the Austin Development Services Department first. Shipping containers for portable storage are allowed without a permit for use on any permitted construction site. El Paso: Shipping containers for storage can be used in non-residential zones but require a building and planning permit. Contact the El Paso Planning and Building Department. Local neighbourhoods or homeowners’ associations (if residential) may have their own regulations. Shipping containers for portable storage are allowed without a permit for use on any permitted construction site.