Can't help you on the wood storage problem. I don't know what the local regulations are. I would see what your neighbors do. I was thinking you might get some eight inch concrete blocks and look around at the lumber yard for three inch wire mesh used for reinforcing concrete slabs and lay that on top of the blocks. This would prevent the rats from hiding under the wood pile. But I may be way off since I don't know what the local requirements are.
My friend build a little wood store on the back of his garden shed so it looks like part of the shed. He then transfers a small amount of the wood to his garage to dry out a bit before bringing it indoors.
Oh Tom, that sounds like a GREAT idea for storing logs. And a lot cheaper than the ones I've seen advertised. And as long as they're off the ground, we'll meet local regulations. Thank you.