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What are some of the non-obvious things I should be looking for as far as building codes for mini-storage? I am looking at building a 40′-0″ x 100′-0″ unit with 20 10′-0″ x 20′-0″ units in it. Are there restrictions as to what materials can be used to build it? Is a firewall necessary for all interior walls sepatating individual units, even if it is unheated? I am in Wisconsin, if that matters.
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Here in Southern Calif I've seen them build with CMU outside & steel studs with drywall one side only inside. One bulbholder in the roof, no outlets. Rollup doors with a sliding latch for a padlock.I've also seen a collection of old overseas shipping containers lined up side by side.
Most are single height, some double decked. Usually some large parking spaces too, for motor homes, truck trailers, miscellaneous large vehicles.
Here I think most have a live on the premises manager or they'd be emptied nightly.
No idea what if any code provisions apply, they are not intended as occupied space, although occasionally they make the papers for some strange goings on. Joe H
PS: they look like gold mines as apparently every one on the planet has more junk than space.
*You might check the local zoning to see how they are zoned. Then you might check your local building officials to see what they require.You also might check on your insurance.
whatever you build will take a beating,, some folks just cant drive a u-haul, and will end up smashing the #### out of the place.Backing up etc..
I would really consult the state code officials on this one... Just plain storage could be interpreted as falling under Wisc Code Ch 54 which is pretty lenient. HOWEVER, storage that houses a vehicle or vehicles would fall under the MUCH more restrictive Hazardous Occupancy Chapter 59. I think.
Of course, once Wisconsin adopts the International Building Code (projects submitted for review on or after 7/1/02) this all changes.
Good luck.