How to Choose a Porta Potty

Choosing the right porta potty may seem like a trivial decision, but it can make or break an event.

As an experienced event planner who has rented my fair share of portable toilets, I’ve learned firsthand how to choose porta potties to keep guests comfortable and satisfied.

In this article, I’ll share my tips for how to choose a porta potty, covering everything from the number of units you’ll need to decorating ideas that will wow your crowd.

With the right information and preparation, you can provide clean, accessible, and pleasant portable toilet facilities at your next event.

Key Takeaways

• Carefully calculate the number of units needed based on event size, type, and duration.
• Select porta potty models best suited to your venue, amenities, and budget. Upgrade for comfort when possible.
• Mindfully determine placement based on accessibility, traffic flow, and privacy considerations.

How Many Porta Potties Do You Need?

Deciding how many portable toilets to rent for an event can be tricky.

You want to make sure you have enough to accommodate your guests and avoid long lines, but you also don’t want to overspend on more units than necessary.

As an experienced event planner, I follow these guidelines for estimating appropriate numbers:

• Outdoor events: Plan for 1 porta potty per every 50-100 guests. The rule of thumb is 1 toilet per 50 people as a minimum.
• Indoor events: You may be able to get by with fewer units – around 1 for every 100-200 guests. People will likely be using restrooms inside the venue as well.
• Length of event: The longer your event, the more units you’ll need. For all-day events, plan for the maximum end of the ratios above.
• Food and drinks: If you’re serving food and alcohol, people will use the restrooms more, so add extra units.
• Demographics: Consider the age and gender of your attendees. Events with more women or older adults require more toilets per person.

Here’s a quick portable toilet planning chart I use:

Adjust the numbers as needed based on event specifics.

It’s always better to overestimate a little on the number of units so there are never long lines. Trust me – no one enjoys that!

Types of Porta Potties

When renting portable toilets, you’ll have options beyond the basic plastic blue outhouse.

As an event professional, I recommend choosing the right porta potty type for your specific needs.

The main categories are:

• Basic: These are your no-frills, single-stall units. While very affordable, they offer minimal comfort and amenities. Best for small outdoor events.
• Standard: More headroom and space than basic units. Typically includes toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Good for most mid-size events.
• Deluxe/VIP: Bigger units with flushing toilets and sinks. Often have lighting and ventilation. Ideal for formal events.
• ADA Compliant: For guests with disabilities. Include grab bars, ramps, and wider doors. Required by law at public events.
• Trailer Units: Fully plumbed trailers with multiple private stalls. Offer amenities like mirrors and lighting. Perfect for very large crowds.

My advice: Choose deluxe or VIP units whenever your budget allows, especially for weddings or upscale events.

Comfort features like freshwater sinks make a big difference.

For outdoor festivals, a mix of standard and ADA units often works well.

Trailers are great for very large crowds of 500+ people.

Adding decorations and fun names like “The Royal Throne” help any porta potty feel more inviting!

More tips on decor coming up later in this article.

Amenities to Consider

The small touches make a big difference when it comes to the porta potty experience.

As an event pro, I always make sure to have these amenity essentials:

• Toilet paper: Provide extra rolls and check frequently throughout the event. Running out is every guest’s nightmare!
• Hand sanitizer: Having hand sanitizer both inside and outside the unit reduces germ spread. Mount dispensers on the exterior for easy access.
• Lighting: In night or dark events, lighting inside the unit and along pathways prevents falls and provides a safer experience.
• Mirrors: A must for any indoor trailer units. For outdoor units, small portable mirrors work nicely.
• Soap and water: A bar of antibacterial soap and a jug of water for washing hands are preferable to wipes if your units have sinks.
• Trash can: Conveniently placed small trash bins cut down on messes. Empty and sanitize regularly.
• Toilet seat covers: While not a necessity, paper seat covers add an extra level of comfort and sanitation.

Pro tip: Order amenity restocking and disposal service from your rental provider to keep units well-maintained throughout your event.

It’s worth the small additional fee!

Placement and Accessibility

Strategic placement of portable toilets at your event ensures attendees can easily find and use them.

I recommend:

• Position porta potties near main gathering areas but not too close to food service. Think about convenient paths to access them.
• For outdoor events, place units on level ground if possible and stake them into the ground. This prevents tipping accidents.
• Make sure there is adequate lighting around the units at night for safety.
• Provide clear signage pointing people toward the portable toilets.
• Don’t hide units behind buildings or trees. Visibility encourages use and cuts down lines.
• Allow for handicap access with open paths leading to ADA-compliant units.
• When possible, provide separate men’s and women’s units to reduce wait times.
• For privacy, position units away from the main viewing areas but not too remote.

Do a walkthrough from all directions to identify the optimal placement spots before your event.

If attendees can easily locate portable toilets, you’ve succeeded!

Rental Costs and Fees

Renting portable toilets represents a significant chunk of any event budget.

I factor in all potential rental costs:

• Base rental fee: The per-unit cost varies based on type, duration, and volume. Basic units start around $75-100 per day, while deluxe units run $150-200 daily. Always compare vendor rates.
• Delivery/pickup: Average $50-100 each way. For multi-day rentals, some vendors waive fees.
• Waste pumping: Units need to be pumped every 4-8 hours for larger events. Often $50-75 per pumping.
• Cleaning fees: Expect per-unit cleaning fees if portable toilets are heavily used. Runs $20-50 usually.
• Taxes: Most areas impose sales tax on top of rental fees.
• Mileage fees: For long-distance delivery to remote sites, some companies charge mileage fees.

My advice: Be upfront about your full estimated program size and duration when requesting quotes.

Never assume you’ll pay just the base cost.

Budget for all potential rental fees and add a 10% buffer as a precaution.

An accurate estimate ensures no budget surprises!

Decorating and Branding

A fun porta potty theme can wow guests and fit your event aesthetic.

Here are my best decor tips:

• Give creative names like “Game of Thrones” or “Starry Night” to make units memorable. Have signs made to label each one.
• Use decals to decorate exteriors with images, patterns, or logos. Many rental companies offer custom decals.
• Add themed accessories like lights, red carpets, curtains, flowers, or props outside or inside units.
• Provide baskets with themed scents, mints, or flowers to enhance the experience.
• Play music outside the restrooms to set the mood. Tailor it to the event theme.
• Use coordinating colors for any carpets, lighting, or accessories you add. Match event colors.
• For outdoor festivals, go bold with festive flags marking the location of the units.
• At upscale events, hire an attendant to maintain units and improve aesthetics.

With a little creativity, your portable toilets can be memorable and complement your event decor beautifully!

Don’t be afraid to have fun with it.

Rules and Permitting

Before installing any portable toilets, it’s essential to follow proper rules and secure permits.

I always:

• Verify the number of units allowed per local regulations. Many cities limit units based on event size and land use.
• Obtain necessary placement permits especially if renting for public spaces, parks, or temporary outdoor events. Applications are through public works departments generally.
• Ensure all units will be placed at ADA-compliant distances from event entrances and parking areas.
• Mark off any emergency fire lanes that must be kept clear around the restroom area.
• For outdoor festivals, roping off sections around banks of porta potties will keep the area tidy.
• Place units at least 50 feet from any body of water like lakes or pools per health codes in most areas.
• Avoid environmentally protected areas for placement. Stay on the pavement whenever possible.

While rules vary widely, any experienced rental provider should know the regulations for your jurisdiction and can advise properly.

Always disclose your full event details so they can guide you in following proper procedures.

It saves headaches down the road!

Ensuring Comfort and Cleanliness

Providing guests with clean, comfortable porta potties should be every event planner’s top priority.

Based on experience, I recommend:

• Arranging for frequent pumping service – every 4-6 hours for large events – to prevent odors and overflow.
• Providing air fresheners, floor deodorizers, and scented trash bags in each unit to keep smells at bay.
• Using separate hand towels and bar soap rather than communal items to minimize germ transmission.
• Make sure units have toilet paper holders and extra TP stocked to prevent messes.
• Securing units to the ground and adding motion-activated interior lights for comfort and safety.
• When possible, rent trailer units that offer running water sinks, heating, and air conditioning.
• For outdoor summer events, attach solar-powered fans to improve ventilation and circulation.
• Placing units near existing electrical outlets allows you to bring in power for trailer units’ light and A/C.

Pro Tip: Assign event staff to monitor porta potty areas frequently and immediately address any cleanliness or restocking issues.

This simple step goes a long way in making your guests comfortable.

Finding Reputable Vendors

Choosing the right portable toilet rental company ensures reliable, high-quality service:

• Search for vendors with an established local presence and office in your area. Avoid fly-by-night operations.
• Verify they are licensed and insured, with all permits required for your jurisdiction. Ask to see the documentation.
• Look for membership in industry associations like the Portable Sanitation Association International, which indicates credibility.
• Compare rates and service offerings between 3-4 vendors. Get quotes in writing.
• Ask about their pumping truck fleet size to ensure sufficient capacity for your event’s needs.
• Tour their facility to verify they have well-maintained units in ample supply for your rental.
• Ask for references from previous clients and check reviews. Reputation matters.

Obviously, I highly recommend Pioneer Potties.

We take pride in making sure every rental meets the high standards of quality.

Request a quote from us when sourcing your portable toilet rental.

The best vendors will work as partners, advising you expertly on the number of units, placement, service schedule, and more.

Taking time to find an established, professional company is a smart investment!

After the Event

My work isn’t done when the last guest leaves.

I follow these steps for properly closing out the porta potty rental:

• Oversee thorough cleaning of each unit by my rental company. Check for graffiti or damage during cleaning.
• Confirm the pumping schedule is completed through the vendor’s possession period to avoid unwanted waste leaks.
• Supervise removal to ensure the rental company takes all additional accessories like lights, carpets, etc.
• Do a final inspection of the site to check for any damage or waste spills. Document with photos.
• Review my contracted rental period to avoid unnecessary rental fees if units are returned early.
• Provide any feedback to the vendor on issues like late deliveries, cleaning problems, etc. to improve next time.
• Submit meter readings for any trailer units with running water to calculate final usage costs.
• Process the final invoice and pay my balance to close out the rental. Follow up on any discrepancies.

Pro Tip: Build in a buffer between the event end and the return deadline so you have time to oversee the entire return process.

And perform one last hygiene check of units before release!

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book my porta potty rental?

You should reserve units at least 2-3 weeks in advance if possible, and for very large events plan 3-6 months out to ensure availability.

What if I underestimate and need more porta potties the day of?

Quality rental companies can often provide additional last-minute units, but you’ll pay a higher delivery fee. Have a buffer built in to avoid scrambling.

Can I customize porta potties with my event logo?

Many rental companies offer graphics and custom decals for an add-on cost. Discuss options well in advance to allow for printing.

How do I know if a rental company properly services the units?

Reputable vendors will provide servicing logs to show the pumping schedule. You can also do periodic checks.

What if my event is canceled – will I get my porta potty rental fee back?

Read your contract carefully for the cancellation policy. Many vendors provide partial refunds if canceled far in advance.

Do rental rates go up during peak event seasons?

Pricing is higher in the spring/summer busy season. Avoid popular dates for deals. Off-peak usually saves 20-30%.