Portable storage containers block driveways for weeks because city permit rules vary block by block

Companies like PODS and 1-800-PACK-RAT deliver containers that must sit on the customer's driveway or street for days to weeks during packing and transit, but municipal permit requirements vary wildly: some cities require a $150 permit 10 days in advance, some ban street placement entirely, some allow 72 hours without a permit, and HOAs may prohibit containers regardless of city rules. Customers discover the restriction after the container is already delivered and face $100-$500 fines per day, forced removal at their expense, or tow charges. This persists because container companies disclaim all permit responsibility in their terms of service, no aggregated database of container-placement rules by municipality exists, and cities have no incentive to standardize because the fines generate revenue.