Do You Need a Permit for a Porta Potty in Southern California?

When does a porta potty need a permit?

A porta potty needs a permit only when it sits on public property: a street, sidewalk, parkway, alley or public park. A unit fully on private property, such as your driveway or jobsite, needs no permit in the Southern California cities we serve.

Who issues street and sidewalk permits?

Street and sidewalk permits are called encroachment permits and come from each city's public works or engineering office. Unincorporated areas use the county: San Bernardino County Public Works, Riverside County Transportation, LA County Public Works, OC Public Works, Ventura County PWA or San Diego County DPW. The City of Los Angeles uses StreetsLA.

Each of our city pages names the local office.

Do events need a restroom permit?

Events on public land, or large events on private land, usually need a special event permit, and the permit often sets the number of restrooms, accessible units and handwashing stations. Bring the permit conditions to your quote so the count matches.

What about HOAs?

HOAs do not issue permits, but many set rules on where a unit can sit, whether it must be screened and how long it can stay. Check your CC&Rs and send them to us. A gray unit or a VIP cabin placed beside the garage satisfies most HOAs.

How do I avoid needing a permit?

Keep the unit fully on your property, off the sidewalk and out of the street. The driveway, a side yard with a 48-inch gate, or a spot beside the garage all work. That covers almost every home remodel and backyard party.

This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with your city.