Yes, you can use an urban planter box on a concrete driveway that gets full sun, but it works best when you treat the setup as a mini heat-and-weight management project rather than simply placing a box on the pavement. Concrete absorbs and reflects a lot of heat, so the root zone can become much hotter than the surrounding air, and moisture will disappear quickly.
Choose a light-colored, thick-walled, insulated, or double-walled planter if possible. Dark plastic or thin metal can overheat roots in strong sun. Make sure the box has generous drainage holes and lift it slightly off the concrete with pot feet or a hidden frame so water can escape and the base can dry. Avoid letting runoff stain the driveway, and check local rules, HOA guidance, or rental agreements before placing a large or permanent planter box.
Weight also matters. Wet soil is heavy, so use a small-to-medium box, spread the load, and avoid concentrating a massive planter on one spot. Do not block vehicle access, walkways, or sight lines, and secure the box if it is tall or lightweight.
For planting, choose heat- and drought-tolerant plants that suit full sun. Use a quality potting mix rather than garden soil, and add mulch to slow evaporation. In peak summer, plan to water more often and check moisture at root depth. A drip line or self-watering reservoir can help. Watch for reflected heat from nearby walls or the driveway itself, and monitor leaves for scorch.
With the right container, drainage, weight control, irrigation, and plant choices, an urban planter box is a practical and attractive way to add greenery to a sunny concrete driveway.