Commission defers county proposal to allow shipping containers for bona fide agricultural use amid concerns about definitions, safety and enforcement

The Beaufort County Planning Commission unanimously voted to defer consideration of a staff-initiated amendment that would allow shipping containers for bona fide agricultural uses, citing numerous unresolved questions about definitions, siting standards and enforcement.

Rob (staff) said the proposal responds to evolving agricultural practices — from hydroponics and mushroom-growing to on-site storage — and would provide exemptions for active agriculture where appropriate. “We usually work with them and see that they have an active agriculture on their property or a plan,” staff said, but commissioners and members of the public pressed for more specificity.

Commissioners requested that staff define key terms such as “bona fide agriculture” and “shipping container,” clarify zone applicability (not all county zones allow agriculture), and add objective standards for size, foundations, setbacks, wetlands restrictions, and permissible utilities and electrical hookups. Several members asked whether annual recertification, periodic inspection, or moving requirements (similar to RV rules) should be required to prevent misuse and to allow enforcement.

Public commenters noted potential environmental and public-safety risks if containers were used for hazardous storage or converted into unpermitted facilities. The applicant and resident commenters suggested using existing agricultural tax classification (Schedule F) or collaboration with Clemson extension or the Farm Bureau as evidence of bona fide agricultural activity.

A motion to defer the amendment to sections 5.3.20 and 4.2.2 for staff to address the raised issues passed unanimously. Staff said they will use the discussion to prepare more detailed language and return to the commission.