How to Keep a Porta Potty Upright in Tularosa Basin Wind
From about March through May, strong afternoon wind sweeps across the open basin around Alamogordo, Holloman AFB and Boles Acres. An empty porta potty weighs about 170 pounds and stands over 7 feet tall, so it catches wind like a sail.
By Mike, owner of Clean Sanitation Pros. Reviewed October 2026.
Why do porta potties tip over in the wind?
A porta potty tips over in wind because it is tall, light and flat-sided. An empty standard unit weighs roughly 170 pounds and stands about 90 inches high. The holding tank adds weight only as it fills, so new units on open lots are the most at risk.
Where should a porta potty go on a windy site?
On a windy site, place the porta potty on the sheltered side of a building, conex, trailer or block wall, with the door facing away from the usual wind. Keep it off high, exposed ground and away from anything it could hit if it moved.
- Back the unit against a solid structure
- Turn the door away from the prevailing west and southwest wind
- Keep at least a few feet from vehicles and windows
When should you ask for tie-downs?
Ask for tie-downs on any porta potty placed on an open lot, a new subdivision, a ranch or a flightline-type site, and on every unit delivered between March and May. Tie-downs are ratchet straps fastened to stakes, a fence or a building.
Mention it when you book, or ask the driver on delivery. Jobsite crews can also strap units to a fence or a pallet of materials.
What if a porta potty blows over?
If a porta potty blows over, keep people away, do not try to lift it, and call us right away. The unit will be stood up, pumped, cleaned and replaced if needed. Wind damage is treated as normal weather, not renter damage, when the unit was placed where we set it.
Call (575) 215-2324. For placement basics on any site, see how porta potty rental works.
Questions about your own site? Call and ask the person who runs the trucks.
Call (575) 215-2324