The Okanagan Valley is one of BC’s most productive agricultural regions. Apple orchards in Kelowna, cherry farms in Lake Country, vineyards across West Kelowna and Peachland, and vegetable operations in Vernon all rely on seasonal crews that need washroom facilities in the field. Portable toilets are the standard solution.

Why Agricultural Operations Need Portable Toilets

Farm workers often spend entire shifts in fields, orchards, or vineyards that are far from any permanent building. Without portable toilets, workers face long walks back to a farmhouse or barn, which wastes time and reduces productivity.

More importantly, providing adequate washroom facilities is a legal requirement. WorkSafeBC and the Employment Standards Act require employers to provide clean, accessible toilet facilities for workers. For agricultural operations, portable toilets are the most practical way to meet this obligation.

How Many Units Do You Need

The general rule is one portable toilet per 20 workers. For agricultural operations with crews spread across multiple locations, you may need units at each work area.

Small farm (5 to 10 workers): 1 standard unit, placed centrally.

Medium orchard or vineyard (15 to 30 workers): 2 standard units. If crews work in separate blocks, place one unit at each work area rather than both at the farmhouse.

Large operation (30+ workers, multiple sites): 2 to 4 standard units distributed across active work areas. During peak harvest, you may need additional units as temporary crew sizes increase.

Farm stands, U-pick operations, and agritourism: If you invite the public onto your property, add at least one unit near the public area. Consider a deluxe flushing unit or ADA unit if you host events or have significant visitor traffic.

Seasonal Timing in the Okanagan

Agricultural portable toilet needs follow the growing season:

April to May: Pruning, planting, and early season prep. Smaller crews, 1 to 2 units typically sufficient.

June to August: Peak growing season. Thinning, irrigation work, and early harvests. Crew sizes grow. This is when most farms need their full complement of units.

September to October: Harvest season. Peak crew sizes for apple, grape, and late-season fruit picking. This is the highest-demand period for both workers and units.

November to March: Minimal field work. Most farms return units for the winter. Some vineyards retain 1 unit for winter pruning crews.

Book early for harvest season. September and October are the busiest months for portable toilet rentals in the Okanagan. If you know your harvest timeline, book units at least 4 weeks in advance to ensure availability.

Placement on Agricultural Properties

Farm placement has unique challenges compared to construction sites or events:

At the edge of the work area, not in the field. Place units on firm ground at the end of a row or at a field access point. Do not place them in the middle of crop rows where they interfere with equipment or irrigation.

On truck-accessible ground. Our service truck needs to reach the unit weekly for pumping and cleaning. Place units near farm roads or access lanes, not deep in orchards or vineyards where a truck cannot reach.

Near water access if possible. While not required for standard units, placing units near a water source makes it easier for us to top up hand wash stations on deluxe units if you choose to rent those.

Shaded locations in summer. Okanagan summers regularly hit 35 to 40 degrees Celsius. A portable toilet in direct sun becomes extremely hot inside. Place units under trees, next to buildings, or on the north side of structures when possible.

Multiple locations for large properties. A worker should not have to walk more than 5 minutes to reach a portable toilet. For large orchards or vineyards, distribute units rather than centralizing them.

What Type of Unit Works Best

Standard units are the most common choice for agriculture. They are durable, cost-effective at $150 per month, and handle the demands of daily field use. Hand sanitizer is included.

Deluxe flushing units are worth considering for farmgate operations, wineries with tasting rooms, or properties that host events. The flushing toilet and hand wash sink provide a better experience for visitors and staff.

ADA units are recommended if your operation is open to the public (U-pick, farm tours, agritourism) or if any workers require accessible facilities.

Regulations for Agricultural Employers

WorkSafeBC requires agricultural employers to provide:

Toilet facilities within reasonable distance of work areas
A minimum ratio of one toilet per 20 workers
Hand washing facilities or hand sanitizer
Regular cleaning and maintenance of washroom facilities

Additionally, if your operation hosts temporary foreign workers through the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP), the federal housing standards require adequate washroom facilities at both the housing site and the work site.

Cost for Agricultural Operations

Monthly rental rates are the same for agricultural operations as for any other use:

Standard unit: approximately $150 per month
Deluxe flushing unit: approximately $225 per month
ADA accessible unit: approximately $275 per month

All prices include weekly servicing.

For seasonal rentals of 5 or more months, contact us about seasonal pricing.

The Bottom Line

Your crew needs clean, accessible washroom facilities in the field. Portable toilets are the simplest, most cost-effective solution for Okanagan farms, orchards, and vineyards.

Action Septic delivers and services portable toilets across agricultural properties from Peachland to Vernon. Call 250-808-7867 or request a quote online to set up your seasonal sanitation plan.

Portable Toilet Rentals for Okanagan Farms, Orchards, and Vineyards