While parking bans are nothing new, one subject often intertwined with them is the use of a carport or portable garage. Ordinances like this that we’ve seen previously often, on the surface, dictate where a car or other vehicle should be parked on a property. The second aspect of such ordinances is on what and under which type of structures are these vehicles parked. This is where the use of portable garages and carports comes in, and the most recent instance of this is a parking ban is Birmingham that, in general, is geared to get residents from keeping vehicles on their front lawns.
Rather than simply stating this, however, the ordinance, Section 11-8-9, outlines for specifics for residents of Birmingham. For example, vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles, or RVs, can only be parked in front of a house if the area is paved or a permitted driveway or has access to a carport or garage that is part of the main house. It appears that portable structures, such as carports installed separately, do not fall within the scope of these qualifications for a vehicle to be parked in front. Nevertheless, as later mentioned in the linked article above, this area in the front yard can provide access to parking on the side or in back of the house. In this case, having a carport or portable garage to protect your vehicle is acceptable.
No matter if you live in Birmingham or a town with a similar parking ordinance, check with your local laws first before purchasing a structure. In many cases, having such a structure in front of your home may not be permitted, and, for available space, you’ll need to measure the area on the side or in back of your home or building. Additionally, this area may need to be paved and the portable shelter may need to be set in concrete for you to meet local codes or laws.
