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How many portable toilets do I need for my event or job site?
The math depends on how many people show up and for how long. Under OSHA 1926.51(c)(1), a construction site with 20 workers or fewer needs 1 toilet facility. From 20 up to 200 workers, add 1 toilet seat and 1 urinal per 40 workers. At 200 or more, the ratio is 1 per 50 workers. For events, assume 1 unit per 75 to 100 attendees at a four-hour gathering, more if the event runs longer. Our how many porta potties do I need guide walks through the calculation by use case. If you're running a job site in Tempe with a specific headcount, call with your numbers and we'll size the rental to match. Non-construction workplaces have different rules; see our OSHA portable toilet requirements page for those details.
What's the difference between standard, deluxe and ADA accessible units?
A standard porta potty holds 60 to 70 gallons and sits about 44 by 48 inches on the ground, standing 92 inches tall. It's the baseline for construction crews and small events. A deluxe flushable porta potty has a flushing mechanism, better lighting and hand sanitizer, so it feels closer to a bathroom. It costs more per day but works well for events where users expect a nicer experience. An ADA accessible porta potty meets ADA Standards section 213.2, with a minimum clear width of 36 inches at the door (ADA Standards section 404.2.3) and a 60 inch turning circle inside. If you're operating in Tempe and legally required to provide accessible restrooms, or if you want to do it anyway, book at least one ADA unit. We deliver and service all three types.
How often do portable toilets get serviced?
A standard service visit happens once per week for the first week, per ANSI/PSAI Z4.3. We pump the tank, replace toilet paper, deodorize, and wipe surfaces. If your site runs weekends or has heavy use, ask about twice-weekly service. Septic tanks in homes get pumped every 3 to 5 years depending on household size and tank capacity. For a rental septic tank, service frequency depends on the job. A commercial grease trap is pumped when fats, oils, grease and solids reach 25 percent of the liquid depth. Call us with your expected occupancy and we'll set the right schedule for Tempe.
Do I need a permit to place a portable toilet or dumpster?
Placement of portable toilets and dumpsters in the public right of way in Tempe requires confirming with the city. We recommend calling ahead before your rental starts. On private property with the owner's consent, a permit usually isn't required. If you're renting a roll-off dumpster or a restroom trailer, ask us during the quote process; we know the typical requirements and can tell you whether paperwork is needed. Our team handles the details, but it's your job to get final approval from the city.
What can't go in a dumpster?
Hazardous materials, electronics, appliances, tires and paint are prohibited in almost all dumpsters. So are asbestos, batteries and medical waste. Some items like concrete are allowed in certain dumpsters but cost extra. For a full list and specific rules on your project, see our what cannot go in a dumpster page. When you rent a dumpster in Tempe, we'll tell you what's banned for your load size and type.
Can I rent a handwashing station without renting a toilet?
Yes. If your crew is applying paints, coatings, herbicides or insecticides, a handwashing station is required under OSHA 1926.51(f)(1). Under 29 CFR 1910.141(d)(2), washing facilities must have soap and towels or a hand drying device. You can rent a standalone station without a portable toilet, though most job sites want both. Contact Tempe Porta Pros with your site details and we'll quote the handwashing setup you need.
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