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Residential storage containers could be nixed in Princeton

Princeton does not have a bylaw against these containers yet, but council is considering creating one.
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Storage boxes like these could be banned in residential areas in Princeton.

Using shipping containers for storage in residential areas could soon be banned.

Princeton does not have a bylaw against these containers yet, but council is considering creating one.

"They're not attractive at all. I don't know if I would appreciate having a neighbour who had a big box with advertising on the outside," said Coun. Marilyn Harkness at a council meeting.

The shipping containers are often used as a quick, cheap fix to storage instead of building a shed.

They can be an eyesore to neighbours who have to look at them, Harkness said.

"But they can be handy, and good for temporary usage like for renovations."

Coun. Kim Maynard said people use the containers because they're "cheap, strong, safe, secure, storm and rodent proof."

Chief administrative officer Patrick Robins said the containers could start popping up before a bylaw is made.

People who put the containers on their property before the bylaw is enacted couldn't be forced to move them, he said.

Council is planning to look into a bylaw soon.