Attleboro Officials Considering Regulations on Outdoor Storage Containers

Attleboro city officials are considering action that would regulate the use of storage containers, or “pods” on residential properties.

"They’re becoming a nuisance because people end up leaving them in their front yards for an extended period of time,” Attleboro Zoning Board of Appeals Chair Keith Hutchings said Tuesday at a joint public hearing with the city council and zoning board.

The regulation is what he called a “good compromise” that would allow for storage containers on residential properties for up to 180 days. Additionally, no more than one container would be allowed on one residential property. Those who wish to keep a container for longer or have more than one could apply for a variance, he said.

In response to City Councilor Brian Kriby’s concerns that some city storage containers fall into that category, Hutchings indicated that a variance could be issued.

He said the storage containers could pose a safety concern should they contain flammable items.

According to Hutchings, the down economy is contributing to the up-tick in “pod” use for storage as people are looking to move out of their homes.

“People are using them probably more than what would normally be until house is sold - and the sale of houses has been slow,” he said.