What do Milwaukee County park permits allow?
Milwaukee County Parks picnic and pavilion permits need at least 7 days' notice (414-257-8005), run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and are offered May 1 through October 15. A picnic permit allows alcohol to be served to guests 21 and over but not sold. Tents go in designated areas only, with no staking — weights or water barrels only.
Source: Milwaukee County Parks — how to picnic in the park; picnic spot policies.
Why add your own porta potty?
- Park restrooms close at 9 p.m.; your permit runs to 10 p.m.
- Park restrooms are open to every park visitor, so summer lines are long.
- Some picnic areas sit far from the restroom building.
- Older guests and kids need a closer option.
What about special events?
Larger events need a Parks special event application with a site map, about 2 weeks of review, a $250 deposit ($500 on the lakefront), and $1 million of liability insurance. Source: Milwaukee County Parks special events. The County's published policies do not address portable toilets, so ask the Special Events Office (414-257-4503) where a vendor unit can be placed before you book.
How many units for a park party?
Use our method: 1 unit per 50 guests up to 4 hours, 1 per 40 for 5–8 hours, plus 1 if alcohol is served. A 75-guest family reunion from noon to 8 p.m. with beer needs 3 units.
Questions readers ask
Can the porta potty truck drive onto park grass?
Only where the Parks office allows. We usually place units on a paved lot edge or path next to the picnic area.
Will you deliver on a Sunday for a Sunday park party?
We deliver Friday or Saturday and pick up Monday. Ask Parks whether the unit can stay overnight at your site.
Which parks have you delivered near?
County parks across Milwaukee County, including lakefront and parkway sites — Parks rules apply to each.