Construction of Mobile Toilets in Shanghai
Shanghai has constructed mobile toilets in multiple areas to meet public needs in various scenarios, and has formed a relatively complete model in terms of application and management.
Typical Regional Construction
Two mobile prefabricated public toilets have been built in Huaxin Town, Qingpu District. The Baolong public toilet covers an area of approximately 160 square meters and was completed in May 2024. It is located within a park, surrounded by large commercial districts and residential areas, serving citizens and customers. The newly built public toilet in the industrial park covers an area of about 200 square meters and was completed in February 2026. It is located at the intersection of Xinxie Road and Huacai Road, surrounded by many logistics enterprises, facilitating truck drivers, couriers, and other groups, filling the gap in sanitation facilities in the surrounding area. These two public toilets are reasonably laid out and fully equipped, with an emphasis on increasing the proportion of female toilet stalls. Each toilet stall is equipped with a smart display screen. In addition to regular male and female toilets and a management room, they are also equipped with a third toilet, which includes child and adult toilets, urinals, etc. For mothers with infants, there are baby care stations and toddler seats. For the elderly and disabled, there are additional toilet handrails, sink handrails, and other facilities. There are also seats for rest, equipped with wheelchairs, canes, and other convenience facilities. A smart public toilet system is installed at the entrance to provide real-time feedback on toilet stall usage and environmental data such as temperature and humidity. In addition, there is a sanitation work room, and the newly built public toilet in the industrial park has also specially created a driver's lounge.
Overall Application
As a super first-tier city, Shanghai has seen a continuous increase in demand for temporary sanitation facilities in public places. Mobile toilets, with their advantage of flexible deployment, are widely used in scenarios such as exhibitions, construction sites, and large-scale events. There are approximately more than 2,000 mobile toilets in the city, with an average of three cleanings per day. The configurations of mobile toilets vary greatly. Basic models typically include squat toilets, sinks, and ventilation systems, with some equipped with emergency call buttons. Among the new mobile toilets put into use in 2023, 85% adopt odor-proof designs. High-end models pay more attention to details, such as adding handrails, non-slip floors, and constant temperature systems, suitable for scenic spots or long-term use scenarios. Most mobile toilets are equipped with smart management systems, allowing users to check usage status and remaining toilet stalls by scanning a code. Some also support online feedback on issues, with a relatively fast response speed.
Illegal Construction
The rooftop terrace belongs to the public space of the residential community, and any unauthorized private construction is strictly prohibited. A resident in Shanyang Town, Jinshan District once擅自 (unauthorizedly) built a mobile toilet on the rooftop terrace, posing a risk of falling objects and without obtaining construction planning approval, which constituted illegal construction. After being handled by law enforcement officers, the party involved completed the rectification.
