HELP CENTER
Frequently Asked Questions
How many portable toilets do we need?
One standard portable toilet can comfortably serve approximately 50 guests during a typical four-hour event. Longer events, food and beverage service, and alcohol consumption often require additional units.
The number of portable toilets needed depends on your guest count, event duration, food and beverage service, and whether alcohol will be served.
As a general guideline:
- Up to 50 guests: 1–2 portable toilets
- 50–100 guests: 2–3 portable toilets/a restroom trailer
- 100–200 guests: 4–6 portable toilets/a restroom trailer
- 200+ guests: Contact The Shed for a customized recommendation
For weddings, guest comfort is especially important. Many couples choose to supplement standard portable toilets with handwashing stations or upgrade to a restroom trailer featuring separate men’s and women’s facilities, running water, flushing fixtures, lighting and enhanced privacy.
The Shed can help determine the ideal sanitation solution based on your venue, guest count, and event schedule to ensure your guests remain.
Do I need a permit for portable toilets?
Permit requirements vary by city, event type, and location. Private construction sites and residential projects typically do not require permits specifically for portable toilets, while public events, parks, beaches, and certain special event venues may have their own requirements.
If you’re unsure, The Shed can help you determine whether permits or approvals may be needed for your project or event.
Where is the best place to put a porta potty?
Portable toilets should be located in easily accessible, highly visible areas near gathering points, start/finish lines, spectator zones, and parking areas. For races and large sporting events, multiple stations distributed throughout the venue often provide the best guest experience.
How much space is required for a portable toilet or restroom trailer?
A porta potty typically requires a level area approximately 4 feet by 4 feet, with a little more clearance for servicing.
Restroom trailers require more space, including guest access and room for a delivery vehicle. The Shed can help you determine the ideal location and requirements for your event.
If you’re unsure, please contact us for help determining the best solution for your site.
Do you offer luxury restroom trailers?
Yes! Climate controlled trailers with running water, flushing toilets and interior lighting. Perfect for weddings, corporate events and private parties.
Why choose a local family-owned sanitation company?
Local companies offer faster response times, local knowledge of the area and regulations, personalized service and greater flexibility.
When you call The Shed, you’re working directly with a local team that understands the North Shore, Southern New Hampshire, local event venues and construction schedules. If plans change, we’re just a phone call away.
Is there a delivery fee?
Delivery is included within our standard service area which includes much of New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Please contact us if you have a question regarding delivery for your event.
What are the advantages of a restroom trailer?
Restroom trailers offer enhanced comfort, privacy, lighting, running water, flushing fixtures, and separate facilities for men and women. They are especially popular for weddings, corporate events, private parties, and upscale gatherings.
Restroom trailers are an excellent option when attendance exceeds 100 guests and whenever guest comfort is a top priority.
Do portable restrooms require water hookups and/or electricity?
Requirements vary by model and event needs. Some restroom trailers require access to electrical service and a water source.
When you contact The Shed, we’ll recommend the most appropriate restroom configuration for your event.
Do you offer monthly rentals?
Absolutely. Long-term rentals are our specialty and include reliable weekly servicing.
Are your units ADA accessible?
We offer ADA-compliant wheelchair-accessible units with extra interior space and ground-level entry. Just ask when you book.
Are there locations where portable toilets should not be installed?
We do our best to accommodate every request. For optimal placement, it’s best to avoid the following::
- Steep slopes
- Low-lying flood-prone areas
- Locations that block emergency access
- Low-hanging branches or wires
- Areas inaccessible to service vehicles
We can help identify the safest and most practical placement for your site or event.
When will my unit be delivered? What if I need it on a Sunday?
We typically deliver the day before your event or the start of your project week. You’ll get a confirmation call with your delivery window.
We understand many events, races, weddings, and construction projects operate outside of traditional business hours. Weekend deliveries and pickups are often available based on scheduling and availability.
We recommend reserving early, especially during peak event season.
Can portable toilets be delivered to beaches and remote locations?
In most cases, yes. We frequently deliver to beaches, parks, remote fields and unusual locations, provided there is safe and adequate access for delivery and servicing vehicles.
Some public properties may require permits or approvals before installation. We have experience working almost everywhere in the North Shore and Southern New Hampshire. Chances are, we have the best solution for your site.
How far in advance should I book?
While The Shed can often accommodate last-minute requests, advance reservations provide the greatest selection of portable toilets, handwashing stations and restroom trailers.
For peak season (May–October), try to book 4–6 weeks ahead. Weddings should be reserved as early as possible.
If you’re unsure of your event date or attendance, we’ll be happy to discuss options and help you plan ahead.
How often should a portable toilet be serviced?
For long-term rentals, portable toilets should be serviced at least once per week. High-traffic events may require additional servicing depending on attendance and duration. We can recommend a servicing schedule based on your needs.
What happens if attendance is higher than expected?
Attendance estimates aren’t always perfect, and larger-than-expected crowds can increase demand for restroom facilities.
That’s why The Shed takes the time to understand your event, guest count, duration, and anticipated traffic when recommending portable toilets, handwashing stations, or restroom trailers. Our goal is to help ensure you have adequate capacity from the start.
When possible, we can also discuss contingency plans in advance for larger events, festivals, races, and gatherings where attendance may be difficult to predict.
If you’re uncertain about attendance, it’s always better to plan conservatively. A few additional restroom facilities can make a significant difference in guest comfort and overall event success.
Still have questions?
Every event, construction site, race, wedding and gathering is different. The Shed’s team is happy to recommend the right number of units, servicing schedule, handwashing stations and restroom trailer options to ensure your guests and workers remain comfortable throughout your project or event. Contact us today for personalized recommendations and a no-obligation quote.
Questions?
Tell us about your event, location and expected guest count. The Shed team will help you understand what you need and provide a clear quote.
Contact The Shed today for personalized recommendations and a no-obligation quote.
Tel. (978) 281-3700
