Ashland to ask Planning Commission to study limits and enforcement for Conex (shipping) containers

Zoning Administrator Bill Krejci reported to the Ashland City Council on Jan. 5 that the city has uncovered multiple instances of Conex (shipping) containers placed on properties without the proper approvals.

Krejci told the council that Conex boxes are currently permitted on commercial properties with a conditional‑use permit and are allowed temporarily on residential properties during construction, but that staff had found containers on residential lots not authorized by the zoning code and commercial sites without current permits. Krejci said stacking containers is not allowed and that annual permit fees are $300; he noted a church permit fee had been waived.

Council President Chuck Niemeyer said the city must set a time limit for container use and said private rental storage facilities exist locally. Niemeyer and other council members expressed concern that the city was not collecting tax revenue on containers used as permanent storage. Council Member Michelle Libal urged even-handed enforcement: "the enforcement needs to be all or nothing and the City cannot display any favoritism," she said. Council Member Jerry Lofberg said he would consult separately with the American Legion about containers on their property.

Krejci said he will compile examples of neighboring communities' ordinances for the council and place the item on the Planning Commission agenda for review at the end of February; the Planning Commission will then issue a recommendation the council can accept or modify.