Porta potties for events
The number depends mainly on guest count and how long the event runs. The chart assumes each guest uses a restroom about once every two hours and that a unit handles roughly 125 uses between services.
| Guests | 2 hours | 4 hours | 6 hours | 8 hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| 100 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| 250 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
| 500 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
| 1,000 | 8 | 16 | 24 | 32 |
| 2,000 | 16 | 32 | 48 | 64 |
Adjust for your event
- Alcohol served: add about 20%
- Public event: make at least 5% of units ADA, minimum one per cluster
- Food served: add handwashing stations, about one per ten units
- Multi-day event: the same count works if units are serviced between days
- Weddings: consider a restroom trailer
Porta potties for construction sites
OSHA's construction standard (29 CFR 1926.51) sets the legal minimum. The recommended columns follow the industry guideline of one unit per ten workers per 40-hour week with weekly service.
| Workers | OSHA minimum | Recommended (40 hrs/week) | Recommended (50 hrs/week) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 10 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| 20 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| 30 | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| 50 | 2 | 5 | 7 |
| 75 | 2 | 8 | 10 |
| 100 | 3 | 10 | 13 |
More detail: OSHA portable toilet requirements for construction sites.
Get an exact recommendation
Every site and event is different. Layout, crowd flow and service access all matter. Use the setup planner on our homepage, or call (605) 476-1420 and we'll recommend a setup.
Frequently asked questions
How many porta potties do I need for 200 guests?
For a four-hour event with 200 guests, plan on about four units. Add about 20% if alcohol is served and include at least one ADA unit for a public event.
How many porta potties for a wedding of 150 people?
For a typical five-hour reception with 150 guests and alcohol, plan on about four units, or a restroom trailer plus a standard unit or two for overflow.
How many porta potties for 50 workers?
OSHA's minimum for 50 workers is two toilet seats and two urinals. Most contractors plan on about five units for a 40-hour week with weekly service.
Does alcohol really change how many units I need?
Yes. Guests use restrooms more often when alcohol is served, so plan on roughly 20% more units.