TL;DR: Renting a porta potty involves costs influenced by the type of unit, rental duration, and additional fees such as delivery and cleaning. Standard units are cheapest, while deluxe and ADA-compliant models cost more. Booking in advance and comparing local providers in Pennsylvania counties can help secure the best price and reliable service. 

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Porta Potty?

Renting portable toilets, often referred to as “porta potties,” is a practical option for outdoor events or construction sites where traditional restroom facilities are not available. You’ll also frequently see them at parks, playgrounds and ballfields. Here is everything you need to know about porta potty rentals!

 

There are a number of factors to keep in mind when renting portable toilets, including the size and scale of the event or project, the maintenance services provided by the rental company, the costs involved and local regulations. Additionally, considering the environmental impact and opting for eco-friendly units can contribute to sustainability efforts.

Planning Your Portable Toilet Rental

To identify how many portable toilets you’ll need, guidelines suggest having at least one porta potty per 50 guests for a four-hour event. For every additional four hours, add one more toilet per 50 guests.

If alcohol is served, increase the number of units by 10-20 percent. You’ll also need additional units if you’re hosting a multi-day event and aren’t contracting overnight cleaning services. It’s also wise to consider the demographics of your attendees, such as the presence of children or elderly guests, which may require more accessible or family-friendly units.

Choosing Units for Your Location

Portable toilets have come a long way over the years. There are many choices available depending upon your needs, your preferences and your budget. Here are some of the models you can choose from:

Standard Units

These are the units you typically see at public events and job sites. With an exterior dimension of 12 square feet, they tend to be the least-expensive choice and usually feature a toilet, a urinal and hand sanitizer. Upgraded models may include a sink.

Accessible Units

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires one of every 20 portable toilets in each location to be accessible, with ground-level access, a large door and adequate maneuvering space to accommodate a wheelchair, toilet paper and horizontal grab bars within reach. These units typically provide 25 square feet of space.

Family Units

These porta potties, ideal for family-friendly events such as reunions and school fairs, feature a changing station and are a larger size comparable to an accessible unit.

Deluxe Units

An upgrade for special events such as weddings, deluxe units feature flushable toilets with a holding tank, so no water hook-up is required. They usually include a sink, soap dispenser, paper towels and a mirror. Typical exterior size is about 15 square feet.

In addition to toilet units, you can rent stand-alone handwashing stations with paper towels, soap and water so people who want to just wash their hands don’t have to occupy a restroom. Some rental companies also offer touchless hand sanitizer dispensers and solar-powered lighting options for added convenience and hygiene during evening events.

Finding a Porta Potty Rental Company

Select a rental company with a strong reputation and positive reviews. This ensures reliability and quality service. In addition, the types of porta potty units the company offers and the costs is another factor to consider. Rental costs can range from $75 to $2,500 a day, depending upon the unit type. You’ll also want to know if the company can handle the size and type of event or workplace you need it for, as well as their terms for delivery, setup and pickup.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep the portable toilets hygienic and functioning. Ask the rental company about their service schedule and what it entails, particularly if you’re renting for longer-term use, such as at a job site. Maintenance should include emptying the tanks, refilling toilet paper, deodorizing and repairing any damage. The company should provide a contact number for emergency maintenance as well.

Make sure the contract clearly states all services to be provided and the time and date the portable restrooms will be removed. Understand your responsibilities in ensuring the units are in the agreed-upon condition at time of pick-up to avoid extra charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book a porta potty rental?

It is best to book at least two to four weeks in advance, especially for large events or peak seasons, to ensure availability.

Are porta potties suitable for all types of events?

Yes, porta potties are versatile and can be used for outdoor events, construction sites, festivals, and emergency situations.

What happens if the porta potty needs servicing during the rental?

Many rental companies offer maintenance and cleaning services during the rental period, often for an additional fee.

Can I request ADA-compliant porta potties?

Yes, most providers offer ADA-compliant units designed for accessibility, though they may cost more than standard units.

Is there a deposit required for renting a porta potty?

Some companies may require a deposit, which is typically refundable upon return of the unit in good condition. Confirm this with your provider.

To learn more about renting porta potties, you can contact Sonlight Services, a provider in Berks County, PA.