Different Types of Portable Toilets (for All Renters & Occasions)

There are several types of portable toilets available for rent, including standard porta potties, ADA-compliant toilets, flushable toilets, toilets for high-rise buildings, luxury restroom trailers, and more. Comparing the different sizes and use cases for each product model can be confusing, though, so we’ve compiled this comparison guide to simplify your shopping experience.

Our guide covers everything you need to know about portable toilet types, including:

• Complete breakdown of all portable toilet models
• Size specifications and tank capacities
• Best use cases for each type
• How to choose the right portable toilet for your needs
• Pricing ranges and rental considerations
• FAQs on portable toilet features and functionality

You can also call us at 855-303-1745 to discuss your rental needs and receive a free recommendation and quote from our experts. Our team will walk you through your options and handle all the rental details — from delivery and placement to scheduled maintenance and pickup.

Portable Toilet Types

Portable toilets are primarily distinguished by their size and interior features, such as whether they offer built-in sanitary facilities like sinks and soap dispensers. Below, we’ll review the different types of porta potties commonly available for rent.

 

Standard Portable Toilet

The classic porta potty is the most popular rental choice. It stands 90 inches tall and measures 45 inches in width and depth, with a 50- to 70-gallon waste tank capacity.

Features a basic toilet seat, toilet paper dispenser, and hand sanitizer dispenser.

Best for: Construction sites, outdoor events, festivals, parks, and any situation requiring basic restroom facilities

Average pricing: $150 to $185

ADA-Handicap Portable Toilet

Extra-spacious, ADA-compliant design with ample room for mobility devices, including wheelchairs, scooters, and canes. Same 90-inch height as standard units, but wider at 77 inches in both width and depth, with a 70-gallon tank capacity.

Features handrails, larger interior space, and accessible door handles.

Best for: Any location serving the public, construction sites with disabled workers, events requiring accessibility compliance

Average pricing: $200 to $300

Portable Toilet with Sink

All the features of a standard unit, plus a built-in sink with foot-pump operation, soap dispenser, and paper towel dispenser for improved hygiene. These units also include a door-mounted mirror. Standard dimensions are 90 inches tall and 45 inches wide/deep.

Best for: Food service events, upscale gatherings, long-term job sites, locations where hand hygiene is critical

Average pricing: $240 to $275

Flushable Portable Toilet

The same look and dimensions of a standard model, but with real flushing capability and fresh water supply. These toilets feature a foot-operated flush system that provides a more home-like experience while maintaining portability.

Best for: Upscale events, residential construction projects, locations where users prefer a more familiar bathroom experience

Average pricing: $350 to $400

High-Rise Portable Toilet

This space-saving model is designed for tight spaces and frequent moves. It’s more compact at 70 inches tall, 33 inches wide, and 53 inches deep. It features built-in wheels for easy maneuvering and repositioning, as well as tie-down points for securing it in windy conditions.

Best for: High-rise construction, rooftops, areas with height restrictions, locations requiring frequent repositioning

Average pricing: Quote only (due to specialized delivery requirements)

Restroom Trailers

The luxury option for those who want maximum comfort and convenience. Housing multiple private bathroom stalls with real flushing toilets, sinks with running water, mirrors, spacious countertops, and climate control. Available in 2, 3, 5, or 8-10 stall configurations.

Best for: Weddings, corporate events, film productions, executive job sites, long-term projects where comfort matters

Average pricing: $2,000 to $10,000+ (depending on size and amenities)

Portable Sink

A standalone handwashing station designed to serve multiple toilets. Available in single or multi-spout configurations, with foot-pump operation, soap dispensers, and paper towel holders.

Best for: Large events, construction sites, food service areas, locations needing to meet OSHA handwashing requirements

Average pricing: $150 to $185

How to Compare & Identify the Right Portable Toilet

Choosing the right portable toilet depends on several key factors:

• Type of Project or Event
• Location and Setup Considerations
• Number of Users
• Duration of Rental

Type of Project or Event

Whether you’re organizing an outdoor event, managing a construction site, or undertaking a small-scale renovation, the nature of your project determines which portable toilet features are most important.

Construction sites and worksites typically need durable, basic units that can withstand heavy daily use.

• Standard porta potties are suitable for most job sites, while high-rise units are essential for elevated work areas or tight spaces.
• OSHA also requires at least one ADA-compliant toilet on job sites with disabled workers or those with 20 or more portable toilets.
• For longer projects, consider using more convenient units, such as restroom trailers, to enhance worker satisfaction and meet hygiene standards.

Public events, such as festivals, fairs, and sporting events, often require a mix of standard and ADA-compliant units to accommodate all attendees. The duration and formality of your event should guide your choices.

Upscale events such as outdoor weddings, corporate gatherings, or VIP areas benefit from flushable units or restroom trailers that provide a more comfortable, home-like experience.

Residential projects, such as home renovations or backyard parties, can typically get by with standard units; however, homeowners often prefer flushable options for the comfort of their guests.

Location and Setup Considerations

Where you’ll be setting up your portable toilet and the physical constraints of your site are crucial factors in determining the right type and size of units.

Space constraints matter significantly. High-rise portable toilets are specifically designed for tight spaces, crowded events, and construction sites where maximizing space is essential. Standard units need adequate clearance for delivery and servicing.

Accessibility requirements vary by location. Public events and large worksites must include ADA-compliant units, while private residential projects may not require them.

Ground conditions affect placement and stability. Ensure your chosen location has level ground and consider whether units need to be secured against wind or other environmental factors.

Access for servicing is often overlooked but critical. Haulers need clear access to units for regular cleaning and maintenance, so consider truck access and any potential obstacles.

Read more: Portable Toilet Placement Rules

Number of Users

A useful gauge for determining the number and type of portable toilets you’ll need is the number of people who will be using the facilities.

For worksites, consider the number of workers per shift and the number of shifts you run each week.

For events, the number of attendees and duration are more important.

The general rule of thumb is to provide one toilet per 20 people, though actual needs vary significantly based on several factors:

• Event duration: Longer events often require more facilities
• Food and beverage service: Can increase usage by 30% or more
• Alcohol service: Increases restroom visits by 15% to 25%
• Gender ratio: More female attendees typically means longer wait times
• Weather: Hot weather increases fluid consumption and restroom use

You should also note that the ADA mandates one handicap-accessible bathroom for every 20 standard toilets.

Read more: How Many Portable Toilets Do I Need?

Rental Duration

Don’t forget to consider how long you’ll need the portable toilets.

If you’re hosting an event that lasts less than a day, you may be able to get by with renting units that have minimal features. On the other hand, longer rental periods may require high-end units with enhanced features (as well as regular cleaning and maintenance).

• Short-term rentals (1 to 3 days): Standard units typically suffice for most needs
• Medium-term rentals (1 to 4 weeks): Consider units with sinks or enhanced features for a better user experience
• Long-term rentals (1+ months): Invest in high-quality units like flushable toilets or restroom trailers to maintain satisfaction and hygiene

Common Questions about Portable Toilet Rentals

Do porta potties have urinals?

No, standard portable toilets do not include urinals. However, you can rent standalone urinals as separate units, which are often paired with portable toilets on large construction sites to accommodate OSHA requirements (sites with 20+ workers need both toilets and urinals).

How much do porta potty rentals usually cost?

Portable toilet rental costs vary based on the model, local availability, delivery distance, servicing frequency, and any additional features or accessories needed.

• Standard portable toilets typically cost between $150 and $185.
• ADA units, portable sinks with toilets, and high-rise units typically cost around $300 per day.
• Luxury restroom trailers can cost $2,000 to $10,000 or more.

Are portable toilets sanitary?

Yes — when properly maintained.

Professional rental companies clean and sanitize units every week (or more frequently in high-use situations), replacing toilet paper and emptying waste tanks.

Modern portable toilets include hand sanitizer dispensers, and many feature built-in sinks with soap and water for enhanced hygiene.

The key is working with a reputable rental provider (like ASAP!) who maintains proper servicing schedules.

How do you empty porta potties?

You don’t have to empty porta potties; our professional haulers take care of this for you.

The process involves pumping out waste from the holding tank, cleaning and sanitizing the interior, refilling the tank with fresh water and chemicals, and restocking supplies like toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Most rental companies handle this automatically as part of your rental agreement.

Can you place a portable bathroom indoors?

You certainly can! Garages and storage sheds make excellent indoor locations for portable restrooms, offering weather protection and preventing waste tank freezing. You may also place portable toilets in unfinished spaces, utility rooms, or areas under staircases with sufficient space and ventilation.

What are the best portable toilets for events?

This largely depends on the type of event.

• Standard porta potties work well for casual outdoor events.
• Upscale events benefit from flushable porta potties or restroom trailers.
• Wedding receptions and corporate gatherings often opt for restroom trailers due to their comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Also, consider whether you’ll need ADA-compliant toilet options to accommodate attendees.

Work with ASAP Marketplace’s Portable Toilet Rental Experts

Choosing the right portable toilet doesn’t have to be complicated.

At ASAP Marketplace, we’ve helped construction companies, event planners, and businesses across more than 100,000 locations nationwide find the perfect sanitation solutions for their specific needs.

Our expert team works with you to assess your specific requirements — from the number of users and rental duration to placement challenges and budget considerations — then recommends the ideal combination of portable toilet types to keep your next event or project running smoothly.

We partner with a vast network of haulers to secure the best rates and availability, and we can often accommodate same-day requests. Our comprehensive service includes delivery, placement, regular maintenance, and pickup, so you can focus on what matters most: your project or event.

Call us at 855-303-1745 to discuss your portable toilet rental requirements with our team of experts.