San Mateo, CA

Frequently Asked Questions in San Mateo, CA

San Mateo Porta Pros handles portable toilets starting at $100 to $150 per day, plus dumpsters, septic pumping and related services. We answer the questions we hear most often from customers. Start here, then request a quote when you're ready.

  • Our own trucks and crews
  • Weekly servicing included
  • Local dispatch

What size portable toilet do I need?

A standard unit holds 60 to 70 gallons and measures about 44 by 48 inches on the ground, standing roughly 92 inches tall. For construction crews, OSHA 1926.51(c)(1) requires 1 toilet facility for 20 workers or fewer, then 1 toilet seat and 1 urinal per 40 workers as the crew grows, per OSHA portable toilet requirements. Events and temporary gatherings need fewer units per person but higher service frequency. If your site has contamination from paints, coatings, herbicides or insecticides, OSHA 1926.51(f)(1) mandates dedicated washing facilities onsite, per handwashing station requirements. San Mateo Porta Pros sizes your order by counting workers, duration and site conditions. Deluxe models work better for longer events or office settings.

How often do portable toilets get serviced?

The baseline is one service visit per week for up to 10 users over a 40-hour week, per ANSI/PSAI Z4.3. High-traffic sites need more frequent visits. San Mateo job sites often run heavier schedules. We'll walk you through the math based on your crew size and rental length. Standard units in heavy use may need pumping twice weekly. Deluxe trailers include more frequent service in their rental. A single service call includes pumping, chemical treatment, paper and soap restocking, and seat sanitizing.

On the job with our local crew

What about ADA accessible units?

San Mateo's construction sites and public events need accessible restrooms. ADA Standards section 213.2 requires that where single-unit clusters exist, at least 5 percent of units, and never fewer than one, must be accessible. An accessible unit needs a 60-inch diameter turning circle inside, a 32-inch clear door opening width per ADA Standards section 404.2.3, and a 36-inch minimum clear route width per ADA Standards section 403.5.1. We stock units meeting all these specs. Cost runs roughly 50 percent higher than standard, but the protection is worth it.

On the job with our local crew

How much does a septic pumping cost?

Residential septic tanks typically pump every 3 to 5 years depending on tank size and household occupants. A single service call ranges from $150 to $300 depending on access and tank depth. We handle grease interceptor pumping too. San Mateo homeowners often wait too long and hit warning signs: slow drains, backed-up toilets, soggy yard patches or dark puddles. Early pumping prevents costly repairs. Commercial grease traps pump on tighter schedules because solids and fats accumulate faster. Emergency septic service costs more but saves your property.

On the job with our local crew

What can't go in a roll-off dumpster?

Hazardous materials like batteries, paint, refrigerant, asbestos and medical waste are illegal; see what cannot go in a dumpster. Tires, car parts and appliances need separate disposal. Soil and concrete are heavy and may exceed weight limits. San Mateo building departments have specific rules on demolition waste. Ask before you load. A typical 10-yard dumpster works for small renovations. Larger 20-yard and 30-yard options suit construction cleanups. We deliver and haul, you fill.

What delivery fee should I expect?

Delivery runs $50 to $150 per trip depending on distance and equipment. San Mateo and nearby Foster City sit close together so most deliveries land on the lower end. Weekend delivery costs more. Call for a firm quote.

Do I need a permit for a porta potty?

Placement in the public right of way needs confirming with the city. We help with the paperwork once you've checked local rules. Private property usually needs only the property owner's sign-off.

How much water does a handwashing station hold?

Most portable sinks hold enough for 30 to 50 hand washes per fill. Per 29 CFR 1910.141(d)(2), facilities must include soap and towels or a hand drying device. Hand sanitizer alone doesn't meet code. Construction sites and food events in San Mateo use these constantly.

Can I rent storage and a porta potty together?

Yes. Many San Mateo contractors rent storage containers for tools and materials on the same job, then add portable toilets and temporary fencing for site security. One rental agreement, one invoice.

What's the nearest competing rental company?

San Mateo Porta Pros, based right here, handles everything from portable toilets through restroom trailers, dumpsters, septic pumping and site containment. We don't refer out.

Next step

Get a delivery date

Tell us the address, the dates and the headcount. We size the order and confirm the route.