17.56.220 Cargo containers.
A. Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish minimum standards for the placement of cargo containers and transport containers used for storage of material and/or equipment or for uses other than that for which they were primarily designed. It is the intent of this section to allow such use of cargo containers within non-residential zones only. Nothing in this chapter shall preclude temporary use of cargo containers on permitted construction sites during periods of construction.
B. Placement and use restrictions. Cargo containers shall comply with the detached accessory buildings standards in AMC 17.56.120, all applicable provisions of the building and fire codes, and the following restrictions on placement and use:
1. Cargo containers placed in commercial zones must be placed in the side or rear yard setback area and in an approved designated area on the same property as the principal use and be included in the overall lot coverage. The cargo container storage area shall be enclosed by a security fence and be screened from abutting properties and rights-of-way by a sight-obscuring fence or effective landscaping at a minimum height of eight (8) feet. Temporary storage of cargo containers is a permitted use in commercial zones. Permanent installation or long-term use of cargo containers is not permitted in the commercial zones.
2. Cargo containers placed in the industrial and institutional zones must be placed in the side or rear yard setback area and in an approved designated area on the same property as the principal use and be included in the overall lot coverage. The cargo container storage area shall be enclosed by a security fence and be screened from abutting properties and rights-of-way by a sight-obscuring fence or effective landscaping at a minimum height of eight (8) feet. Cargo containers placed in the industrial zones or the institutional zone for long-term or permanent placement may be required to be painted or stained a neutral shade which blends with the surrounding premises or nearby structures on the same property.
3. Cargo containers shall not occupy required off-street parking, loading or landscaping areas.
4. Cargo containers may not be stacked except in industrial zoning districts.