Backyard Party Porta Potty Checklist
A porta potty keeps 100 guests out of your house and off your septic or sewer line. Run through this checklist a week before the party and nothing will surprise you on the day.
1. How many units?
Use 1 standard unit for every 50 guests at a 4-hour party, and add 1 when alcohol is served. A 100-guest, 4-hour party with beer needs 3. Use the calculator for longer parties. Count every guest who stays more than an hour, not just the RSVP list.
2. Which unit?
Choose a flushing unit with a sink when older guests or kids will use it, and a standard unit for casual parties. Add a wheelchair-accessible unit if any guest uses a wheelchair or walker. Parents with small children also like the extra room inside.
3. Where will it go?
Pick a flat 4-by-4-foot spot, reachable through a gate at least 48 inches wide, within 25 feet of the street or driveway. Keep it near the party but downwind of the food, and away from the bounce house or the play area for kids.
4. When does it arrive?
For a weekend party, the unit arrives Thursday or Friday and leaves Monday. There is no charge for the extra days. Clear the drop spot before delivery day and tell neighbors a truck will stop briefly on the street.
5. Supplies and signs
- Ask for extra toilet paper rolls left on site.
- Add a hand-washing station if food is served.
- Put a small solar light nearby for evening parties.
- Tape a sign: "Restroom this way."