Proper planning ensures your outdoor event has adequate restroom facilities
Planning portable restrooms for an outdoor event requires attention to guest count, event duration, and accessibility requirements. Use this checklist to ensure your event has adequate restroom facilities.
Pre-Event Planning Checklist
- Determine expected guest count
- Calculate event duration in hours
- Identify if alcohol will be served (increases restroom usage)
- Check if food vendors will be present
- Review venue layout for placement options
- Confirm delivery and pickup access routes
Calculating Number of Units
The general rule for outdoor events is one porta potty per 50 guests for a 4-hour event. Adjust based on these factors:
(Number of Guests / 50) x (Event Hours / 4) = Minimum Units
Example: 200 guests for 6 hours = (200/50) x (6/4) = 4 x 1.5 = 6 units
Factors That Increase Requirements
- Alcohol served: Add 20-25% more units
- Food-heavy event: Add 10-15% more units
- Majority female attendance: Add 15-20% more units
- Events over 6 hours: Consider mid-event servicing
Placement Checklist
- Location is visible but not too close to food areas
- Ground is level and stable
- Units face away from main event area
- Clear signage directing guests to restrooms
- Adequate lighting for evening events
- Service truck access path is clear
- Minimum 10 feet from food service areas
Accessibility Requirements
Events open to the public should include ADA-compliant units:
- At least one ADA unit for events with 50+ guests
- ADA units placed on firm, level ground
- Clear path of travel to ADA units (36" minimum width)
- No steps or barriers to access
- Units positioned for wheelchair approach
Event Day Checklist
- Confirm units were delivered and positioned correctly
- Check that all units are stocked with supplies
- Verify doors open and close properly
- Test hand sanitizer dispensers
- Place directional signage if needed
- Note rental company emergency contact number
Post-Event
- Confirm pickup time with rental company
- Ensure access path remains clear for pickup
- Note any issues for future events
Planning an Outdoor Event in Chicago?
Primecrest Porta Potty Rental Chicago provides portable restrooms for events of all sizes across the Chicago metro area.
π Call (773) 985-2879 for a Free Quote