What makes a good porta potty spot?
A good porta potty spot is level ground about 4 by 4 feet, within about 150 feet of where the service truck can park, away from slopes and low spots, and out of traffic lanes. The door should open onto a clear path, not a fence, gate swing or parking space.
- Level within an inch or two side to side
- Firm surface: concrete, gravel, caliche or dry grass
- No overhead lines or low branches over the truck lane
- Not on septic lids, sprinkler heads or gas meters
How close does the truck need to get?
The service truck needs to park within about 150 feet of the unit, because the pump hose has a limited reach. The truck needs a lane about 10 feet wide and firm enough for a loaded vehicle. Soft sand, steep driveways and tight turns should be mentioned at booking.
Which way should the door face?
In Carlsbad, face the door north or east so the afternoon sun does not bake the interior, and turn it away from the prevailing wind on open lots. For events, face doors toward the guest path but away from food tables and seating.
How far from an event should units be?
Event units belong about 50 to 100 feet from seating and food, close enough to find and far enough to keep odor away. Put the wheelchair-accessible unit on the firmest, flattest ground closest to the main path. Light the path for evening events.
What about gates, dogs and locked yards?
Backyard placement needs a gate at least 5 feet wide and a path with no steps. Put dogs inside on delivery and service days, and share gate codes at booking. If the driver finds a locked gate, the driver calls the contact on file before leaving.
Do you need a permit to put a porta potty on the street?
A porta potty on your own property usually needs no permit, but a unit on a street, sidewalk or public park may need City approval. Call the City before placing a unit in the right-of-way. See the service area pages for local permit links.