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Porta potties for a graduation party: how many, which type, and where to put them in a backyard ✓ Solved

Brooke L.asked 52 viewsEvents & WeddingsBackyard partyHow manyPlacementStandard unitAda unit

Accepted answer

Two units is a good start, but consider adding a handwash station for your food event. The rental company will confirm the placement is on level ground and that your proposed truck spot is firm and clear of sprinkler heads or low branches. For a Read the full answer

Hi all, I'm planning a backyard graduation party for my sister in a few weeks. We're expecting 60 to 80 people, mostly family and friends across all ages, for one afternoon (around 4 to 6 hours). There will be catered food and we're serving beer and wine. Our yard is mostly flat grass, and a truck can easily pull up right along the side of the house where I was thinking of putting the units.

I've been calling around and getting quotes, but I'm stuck on a few basics. I need to figure out how many porta potties to get, what type makes sense for a mixed-age party like this, and the best spot to place them so they're convenient but not right in the middle of the party. Do I just get a couple of standard units, or should I consider a deluxe one or even an ADA-compliant unit? And where is the ideal placement from a guest experience standpoint?

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✓ Accepted by Brooke L.

Priya N.Tampa, FL

Two units is a good start, but consider adding a handwash station for your food event. The rental company will confirm the placement is on level ground and that your proposed truck spot is firm and clear of sprinkler heads or low branches. For a mixed-age group, the ADA-compliant unit is wise, as it provides a stable interior with handrails for older guests, not just wheelchair users. The driver will use a hand truck to move the units across the grass, but they need a clear, straight path from the truck bed to the final spot. Place the cluster a bit farther than 30 feet if you can, ensuring the path is lit if the party goes into the evening.

  • Hector V. Good point on the ADA unit. Also, confirm with the rental company their [service frequency](https://portapotty.forum/glossary/service-frequency/) for weekend events. Some will not service until Monday, so plan for enough capacity.
1
Kim S.Raleigh, NC

For a graduation party with 60 to 80 guests over four to six hours with alcohol, plan on renting at least two portable toilets. The common units-per-person guideline for events is about one unit per 50 to 75 people for four hours, but you should add units for longer durations and alcohol service. Since your party includes beer and wine and runs longer, two units will provide better capacity and comfort.

A good setup is one standard unit and one ADA-compliant unit. The ADA cluster rule requires at least one accessible unit when you have a cluster, and it also benefits older guests or anyone needing more space. You could also consider a deluxe unit with a flushing toilet and sink if you want a more upscale feel, but it will cost more due to the added features.

Place the units on your flat grass along the side of the house where the truck can access them for delivery and service. Keep them about 20 to 30 feet from the main party area so they are convenient but not intrusive. Make sure the path to them is clear and stable. Since the event is just one afternoon, you will not need a service visit; the rental company will deliver them clean and pick them up after.

  • Brooke L. Thanks Kim, the two-unit plan makes sense for our size party. I'll ask the rental company about bundling a standard unit and an ADA unit for the weekend.
1
Nina R.Nashville, TN

Kim covered the basics, but call the rental company to confirm your site meets their truck access requirements. They will check for overhead clearance and a firm surface for the truck to park without sinking. For a one-day event with 80 people and alcohol, two units is the minimum; adding a third standard unit prevents lines if the party runs long. A deluxe unit with a sink is a good upgrade for a graduation party since guests appreciate the handwashing. Place the cluster downwind from the food and seating area for better odor control.

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