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Our township hall is a polling place on Election Day but the restroom is torn out. Do we need an ADA porta potty?

Megan H.asked 1 viewRules, Permits & ADAAda unitStandard unitPlacementPolling placeEvent access

I'm on the board for our little township and the hall is the polling place on November 3. Bad timing: the only restroom is gutted for a plumbing repair and won't be back until after Thanksgiving. We'll have six poll workers there from 6am until close, plus voters coming through all day. Maybe a few hundred in a sleepy year, but turnout has been up lately.

My plan was one standard unit out by the side door for the workers. Someone at the last meeting said if voters can use it too, it has to be an ADA unit, and a couple of our regulars use walkers.

So do we need the accessible one, or both? And where should it go? The lot is gravel and the only paved bit is the walk up to the front door.

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Hector V.Phoenix, AZ

Yes, you need an ADA-compliant unit because voters will use it. The ADA cluster rule requires at least one accessible unit when multiple portable toilets are provided for public use. Since you anticipate voters with mobility aids, an ADA unit is non-negotiable. For the six poll workers, OSHA 1926.51 requires one toilet for up to 20 employees, so one standard unit would suffice for them alone, but with public access, prioritize the ADA unit. Place it on level ground near the accessible route to the building, ideally on the gravel lot if firm and stable, ensuring a clear path without obstacles. Service it before Election Day due to high use; a one-time event rental typically includes delivery, pickup, and a pre-service, but confirm with the rental company. Avoid the paved walkway to maintain voter access.

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