Green River approves ordinance allowing certain enclosed trailers and cargo units as accessory storage

The Green River City Council adopted Ordinance 2025-01, amending Title 10, Chapter 18 of the municipal code to expand the definition of permitted accessory storage containers.

Under the new language approved by the council, enclosed trailers, truck van boxes, railroad cars and semi-trailers may be used as on-site cargo containers if they are removed from their transportation apparatus (for example, axles or vehicle frames) and painted a solid color. The ordinance ties these units to existing cargo-container regulations: they must meet setback requirements, be painted and, in commercial zones, be placed out of sight from Main Street unless screened by buildings or fencing.

David (staff member) told the council the planning commission had worked on the change for roughly three months and recommended the amendment unanimously. Council members discussed safety and appearance concerns — including whether damaged or cut-up trailer bodies would meet the "enclosed" standard — and emphasized the need for enforcement to ensure containers are painted and maintained.

The ordinance preserves existing zone-specific rules: in residential zones a property must be at least 7,500 square feet before an accessory container is permitted; in agricultural zones one container is allowed per acre up to five total; commercial C-1 and C-2 Main Street properties may have containers only if they are out of view from the fronting street.

The council adopted Ordinance 2025-01 by roll-call vote; the motion passed unanimously of those present.