One of the more common (and critical) questions event planners have to ask themselves is:
“How many porta potties do we actually need?”
The answer isn’t as simple as you may think.
Too few restrooms can lead to long lines and frustrated guests. While too many can lead to wasted money and venue space.
Fortunately, estimating the right number of portable restrooms can be easy once you know a few basic guidelines. By considering guest count, event length, and a few other factors, you can ensure any event goes off without a hitch.
The Basic Porta Potty Formula for Events
If you’re planning an event, you can start with a simple rule of thumb:
Plan for one portable toilet rental for every 50 guests at a four-hour event.
For example:
- 50 guests → 1 portable toilet
- 100 guests → 2 portable toilets
- 250 guests → 5 portable toilets
- 500 guests → 10 portable toilets
It’s important to note that this is the minimum guideline, and it works well for events like weddings, festivals, and corporate and community celebrations. It also helps prevent long lines and keeps rental costs low.
However, every event is unique, and there are a few situations where you may want more for your guests (which we’ll explore below). In fact, many experienced planners prefer a slightly higher ratio that is closer to one unit for every 40 guests.
Factors That Can Affect Restroom Needs
Though the 50-guest rule is a great place to start, several factors can influence how many restrooms you should plan for, including:
Event Duration
The longer an event goes, the more restrooms will be needed. Naturally, an event that lasts six or eight hours will require more capacity than a shorter affair.
Alcohol Service
There’s usually an uptick in restroom usage if alcohol is being served at an event. Events such as concerts, festivals and some weddings often require 15-25% more units to keep things comfortable for attendees.
Food & Drinks
The need for more restrooms tends to rise when food trucks, catering services, and alcohol & beverage stations are present. These amenities often encourage guests to extend their stay and consume more food & drinks.
Guest Demographics
Any event with children, older guests or families could benefit from additional porta potties.
Event Size and Layout
Large outdoor spaces sometimes require restrooms placed in multiple areas so guests don’t have to walk long distances.
Making these small adjustments can make a big difference in not only guest comfort, but the success of your event.
Quick Reference Chart for Event Restroom Planning
Here’s a simple planning chart many event organizers use as a guideline.
| Guests | Minimum Units (1:50) | Recommended Units (1:40) |
| 50 | 1 | 2 |
| 100 | 2 | 3 |
| 250 | 5 | 6–7 |
| 500 | 10 | 12–13 |
Use the above chart as a helpful starting point when estimating your restroom needs. If you’re really unsure, it’s usually better to add an extra unit than risk long lines during your event.
Where Should Portable Toilets Be Placed?
While the number or restrooms you provide is critical, where you place them is just as important.
For example, if all restrooms are placed in the corner of a large space, attendees may still deal with long lines simply because of distance. When it comes to placement, a few general tips include:
- Spread units out across larger event spaces
- Keep restrooms within a reasonable walking distance of main gathering areas
- Avoid placing restrooms directly next to food service areas
- Make sure restrooms are well lit if the event continues into the evening
- Leave room for servicing if the event lasts multiple days
With just a little planning, you can significantly improve the overall experience for your guests.
Do Events Need ADA-Accessible Portable Restrooms?
In many cases, public events are required to provide ADA-compliant portable restrooms to ensure accessibility for all guests.
These restrooms are bigger than typical portable restrooms and include features such as:
- Wider entry doors
- Ground-level access
- Interior space for wheelchairs
- Support rails for stability
Even in cases where they are not strictly required, it’s generally considered best practice to have at least one at larger gatherings and events.
Renting Portable Restrooms for Events in Arizona
The Phoenix area is a hot spot for outdoor events, especially during the cooler months when many festivals, gatherings and weddings take place. And planning your event can be much easier when you work with a local partner. Delivery timing, placement recommendations, and servicing schedules can all be coordinated so everything is ready before guests arrive.
Here at Proper Site Services, we proudly provide portable toilet rentals, including VIP Toilet Trailers to Rent. We also provide handwashing stations and other event site solutions for events across Arizona, allowing you to focus on your event instead of worrying about logistics.
Planning an Event? Proper Site Services Can Help
Portable restroom planning certainly may not be the most exciting part of putting an event together, but it’s without question one of the most important. With the right number of units, you can prevent long lines and keep guests comfortable.
If you’re planning an event and need help renting the right number of portable restrooms, the team here at Proper Site Services can help you find the best solution for your setup.
Call (602) 612-8821 or request a free quote here today.
