Can You Legally Live In A Storage Unit In North Dakota?

The cost of living is going up everywhere, and sadly, many of us are struggling to make ends meet. High rent payments and home costs are largely to blame.

While most of us have an apartment or even a room we can rent off of someone, unfortunately, some of us slip through the cracks.

With the cold weather months quickly approaching in North Dakota, some of us are looking for any way to stay out of the cold. If you are struggling, and thought it might be a good idea to live in a storage unit, you should absolutely reconsider.

According to Apartment Therapy, it is very unsafe to attempt this.

Safety Concerns

Let's talk about safety. First and foremost, storage units are very well insulated. When North Dakota dips down to those negative temps, you might as well stand outside, because you're not getting much more than wind shelter in that storage unit.

The source says a lot of neighboring storage units are treated with agrochemicals; this is very dangerous to be around for extended periods of time. These chemicals are used to help ward away pests.

Another reason storage units are not safe is due to limited exits. If the storage facility catches on fire, you could be in extreme danger. Or how about if you have a personal emergency? There's only one way out, and you'd better hope it doesn't jam or get locked from the outside.

Legal Concerns

Now that we've gone over the safety concerns, let's talk about the legal.

That's right, living in a storage unit is illegal in every U.S. state. It's likely written in your rental agreement that you cannot live in the unit. If caught, you could get charged with trespassing and get hit with a few fines.

So, no, it is not okay to live in a storage unit in North Dakota. If you or someone you know is homeless or facing homelessness, there are programs in North Dakota that might be able to assist you.

North Dakota Coalition for Homeless People

North Dakota Housing Finance Agency

ND Housing Help

Missouri Valley Coalition for Homeless People

United Way Emergency Shelter 

Ministry on the Margins