Short answer: a contractor yard or outdoor storage lot is land where you park trucks, trailers and equipment or store materials, often with a small building or office. In Bucks County, the biggest question is whether township zoning allows outdoor storage at that address. After that, look at the surface, access, security, lighting and lease terms.
I'm Carolyn Olivieri, a Doylestown-based industrial and flex specialist with KW Commercial. I have over ten years in distribution and still run a distribution business today. If you run trucks or equipment, the yard can matter as much as the building.
Start with zoning
Outdoor storage is often treated differently from indoor storage. Some districts allow it, some limit it, and some require screening or fencing. Township applications can ask about it directly. Warwick Township's commercial U&O application, for example, asks for details on outdoor storage. (Source: Warwick Township Commercial Rental U&O Application) Check with the zoning officer before you sign.
What to look at on the lot
- Surface: paved, gravel or stone. Heavy equipment can tear up a weak surface.
- Access: can your trucks get in and out easily, and is the road suitable for them?
- Size and layout: room to turn, park and load without blocking anyone.
- Fencing, gates and lighting for security.
- Stormwater: where water goes when it rains, and whether there are rules on what you can store.
- Any building on site: office space, restrooms, a garage bay or shop.
- Neighbors: homes nearby can mean limits on hours, noise and lighting.
Lease terms to ask about
- Is the rent quoted per acre, per month, or per square foot of building?
- Who maintains the surface, fencing and snow removal?
- Can you store fuel, materials or chemicals? Check both the lease and township rules.
- What condition do you need to leave the lot in when you move out?
- Is there an environmental report? Ask your attorney whether you need one.
Tax and legal questions should go to your accountant and attorney.
Helpful reading: How Does Zoning Work for Warehouse Use in Bucks County?, How Do Use and Occupancy (U&O) Certificates Work in Bucks County?, Flex vs. Industrial Space: What Is the Difference? and How Do I Negotiate an Industrial Lease in Bucks County?
FAQs
Can I use any industrial property as a contractor yard?
No. Outdoor storage has its own zoning rules in many townships. Confirm with the township that your use is allowed at that address.
What should I check on an outdoor storage lot?
Zoning, the surface, truck access, fencing and lighting, stormwater, any building on site, and how close the neighbors are.
Who maintains a contractor yard on a lease?
It depends on the lease. Ask who handles the surface, fencing and snow removal, and get it in writing.
Do I need a U&O for a contractor yard?
Many townships require one for a new business or change of use. Check with the township before you move in.
Talk to a local industrial specialist
Questions about industrial or flex space in Bucks County? Email Carolyn Olivieri, a Doylestown-based industrial and flex specialist with KW Commercial, at c.olivieri@kwcommercial.com
Carolyn Olivieri, KW Commercial