Alabama Town Bans Self-Storage Developments

Prattville, Alabama officials have approved a temporary halt on the development of mini warehouses and self-storage facilities within city limits.

The City Council passed the measure during its meeting on Tuesday evening this week, citing concerns over the rapid growth of such businesses.

According to District 1 Councilman Russ Sanders, the moratorium is set to last for one year unless the council opts to extend or shorten the timeframe. “The move was made because of the proliferation of the businesses in the city,” he explained.

Projects that already received approval before the vote will be allowed to proceed as planned.

This isn’t the first time Prattville leaders have pressed pause on commercial development. Back in May, the council voted to temporarily stop issuing permits for new gas stations, convenience stores, and vape shops. That ban is also in effect for a year and is intended to give the city time to evaluate its zoning regulations related to those types of businesses.

Following Prattville’s lead, other nearby municipalities—including Millbrook and Montgomery—have enacted similar temporary restrictions on vape shops, convenience stores, and fuel stations.

Mayor Bill Gillespie noted that while Prattville’s ongoing growth is positive, it does present some complications. “It gives us time to review our zoning ordinances to make sure we give the citizens of Prattville what they deserve, while still protecting what makes Prattville Prattville,” he said.

Gillespie added that the city may consider future moratoriums for other types of businesses as needed.