Storage PODs in Berkeley: What Housing Providers Need to Know

During move-in or move-out, tenants sometimes request to use a portable storage container, like a POD, to simplify the process. While these containers offer convenience, their placement is regulated by the City of Berkeley, particularly when they’re located in the street or on the sidewalk.

Here’s what BPOA members need to know when a tenant asks to use a storage pod at your property:

🏡 Placing a POD on Private Property

• No city permit is needed if the POD is placed entirely on private property, such as a driveway or parking pad.

• The container must not block the sidewalk, public right-of-way, or neighboring properties.

🛣 Placing a POD on the Street (Public Right-of-Way)
If a POD will be placed in the street (e.g., in a parking space), the City of Berkeley requires a Temporary No Parking Permit.

📝 Permit Process Overview
Tenants or storage vendors must complete the City's official application (Form #302: Temporary No Parking Signs) and include a schematic plan showing exactly where the container will be placed relative to the curb, sidewalk, driveway, and building.

Here’s how it works:

1. Submit the application to the Permit Service Center:

   • Address: 1947 Center St., 3rd Floor, Berkeley, CA 94704

   • Email: permits@berkeleyca.gov

   • Phone: (510) 981-7500

2. Include details such as:

   • Duration and exact dates of POD placement

   • Number of standard or restricted parking spaces to be reserved

   • Type of use selected: Moving Container

   • Schematic diagram of the block and space requested

3. Pay associated fees, including:

   • $22 filing fee

   • $34 base permit fee

   • $15 per No Parking sign

   • $100 per POD or moving container

4. Post City-issued “No Parking” signs at least 72 hours in advance of the prohibition period. Without proper signage and advance notice, the City will not enforce space reservation.

5. Enforcement: Once the permit is active, improperly parked vehicles in the reserved space can be towed. Call Berkeley Police Non-Emergency at (510) 981-5900 to request enforcement.

⚠️ Reminders for Housing Providers

• PODS placed in the street or public right-of-way always require a City permit. Unauthorized placement can result in fines, complaints, or forced removal, so it’s essential to confirm that your tenant has secured the proper approvals before delivery.

• Encourage tenants to communicate early if they plan to use a moving container. The permit process requires lead time, and not all locations will qualify, particularly on narrow streets or in permit-restricted parking zones.

• If a tenant requests to place a POD on your private property (e.g., in the driveway), we recommend using a separate written agreement to define the terms. This ensures you retain control over the placement location, time period, and liability without altering your lease.

• Even short-term container use, such as a same-day drop-off or pickup, requires planning if the container will be placed on public streets. Tenants often underestimate the logistics and permitting requirements, so clear communication up front helps avoid last-minute issues.