Porta Potty Forum
Log inAsk a question

Can a porta potty be delivered through a narrow side gate? ✓ Solved

Dave P.asked 49 viewsDelivery, Placement & ServicingDeliveryTruck accessBackyard eventStandard unitPickupGraduation party

Accepted answer

Yes, crews can roll a standard unit through a side gate by hand when the truck cannot enter the yard. Most delivery trucks carry a dolly or use the built-in skids and walk the cabin in on flat ground. A tight turn near the gate is common; the limiting factor is clear width and a path without soft mud, steep steps, or soft garden beds. Read the full answer

A porta potty needs to reach our backyard, but the only access is a narrow side gate. We are setting up a graduation party at home and would rather keep the unit behind the fence than beside the driveway. The path is flat, though it makes a tight turn near the gate and the delivery truck cannot drive into the yard. Can crews roll a standard unit in by hand, or do they normally need a straight, wider path from the truck? I also need to know whether the same access has to stay clear for pickup and service. What measurements or photos should I have ready before I schedule delivery?

2 answers

Accepted answer first, then by votes
2✓

✓ Accepted by Dave P.

Toni S.Richmond, VA

Yes, crews can roll a standard unit through a side gate by hand when the truck cannot enter the yard. Most delivery trucks carry a dolly or use the built-in skids and walk the cabin in on flat ground. A tight turn near the gate is common; the limiting factor is clear width and a path without soft mud, steep steps, or soft garden beds.

Before you schedule, measure the gate opening (side to side and height if there is an arch), the straight width of the path, and how sharp that turn is. Snap a few phone photos from the street to the final pad so the driver can see the squeeze points. Tell them the truck will stay on the street or driveway and the unit has to be walked in.

Keep that same path clear for pickup and for any mid-event service visit. The vacuum hose can reach farther than the truck, but someone still has to reach the door and the holding tank fittings. If the gate will be locked during the party, leave a key or latch plan with whoever meets the driver.

I have had backyard graduation setups done this way with no drama as long as the gate and path were measured up front and the pad was level and firm.

  • Lisa G. Measure the walking path and send the photos when you book. We had a similar side-gate drop and the crew walked it in fine once they knew the turn was tight.
1
Hector V.Phoenix, AZ

A crew can roll a standard unit through a narrow gate with a dolly. The critical measurement is the gate width, if it's at least 3 feet, they can pivot it through. Measure the gate width, the path width, and any tight turns. Take photos of the entire path from the street to the placement spot. The same path must remain clear for pickup and any service visit. The vacuum hose can stretch, but the driver needs clear access to the unit's door and tank fittings. If the gate is locked, coordinate access with the rental company.

  • Owen G. Also, check the gate height. Some older gates have a low header that catches the top of the unit. A driver will refuse delivery if the unit can't clear the opening.

Your answer

Log in or create a free account to answer this question.

Related questions