Utah communities explore residential use of shipping containers as accessory buildings

The Ogden City Council held a work session on March 18, 2025, focusing on the potential use of shipping containers as residential accessory buildings. The discussion began with an overview of communities in Utah, such as Weber County, South Ogden, and Monticello, that permit shipping containers for residential purposes, provided they are not used as primary living spaces.

Steve, a council member, explained the definition of a residential accessory building, emphasizing that it should be subordinate to the main dwelling and used for purposes related to the household, such as storage or home offices. He provided cost estimates for acquiring and setting up shipping containers, noting that smaller containers could range from $10,000 to $20,000, while larger, more finished containers could cost between $30,000 and $50,000, excluding permits and site preparation.

The council reviewed common requirements from other municipalities that allow shipping containers, including the necessity for siding, roofing for aesthetic purposes, and restrictions against stacking containers. Additionally, they discussed the importance of ensuring that these structures meet typical accessory building requirements, such as setbacks and height restrictions, to maintain neighborhood aesthetics.

Council members acknowledged the growing trend of using shipping containers across the country and expressed interest in proactively addressing this issue within their own regulations. They recognized the potential for these structures to blend into residential areas if designed appropriately.

The session concluded with a discussion on the differences between accessory buildings and backyard storage sheds, with members noting that while both serve similar functions, there are distinctions in size and permitting requirements. The council is considering further exploration of the topic, including the possibility of allowing shipping containers as accessory dwelling units in the future.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to adapting local regulations to reflect changing trends in housing and construction while ensuring community standards are upheld. Further discussions and potential follow-up actions are anticipated as the council continues to evaluate this emerging issue.