Figure a way to protect rhe exposed terminals so a short doesnt happen if something contacts them both at the same time. That is the primary reason for a battery box. In the past, a box was needed for spilliage from the wet cells. This looks like a tough case, so perhaps keeping the terminals covered should work. In Ohio they don't write you a ticket for not having a battery box, but they can spend a long time telling you why you should have one!!
The safety inspection may not get you a sticker if the battery has exposed terminals, but you won' t go to jail...lol
