Odesa raises fees for using public restrooms

Odesa has decided to set a tariff for using public restrooms. The cost of one visit will be 10 hryvnias, and certain categories of citizens will be able to use the toilets for free.

The decision was made by the Executive Committee of the Odesa City Council.

The Executive Committee submitted proposals to the Odesa City Military Administration of Odesa District to set a tariff for the use of public toilets operated by theService Center Utility Company. The decision was made taking into account the legislation on local self-government, the legal regime of martial law and the relevant resolutions of the Cabinet of Ministers on the formation of tariffs for public restrooms.

According to the annex to the decision, it is planned to set a fee of UAH 10 per visit. The decision provides for a list of categories of persons who will be able to use the restrooms free of charge.

These categories include: people with disabilities; children with disabilities and their parents or guardians; children under the age of five; people who have been disabled by war; participants in war and hostilities; families of deceased servicemen and women; families of deceased war veterans; and participants in the Revolution of Dignity who have been injured or suffered.

The document is currently awaiting review and approval by the administration, after which the new tariff will come into force in 2026. According to the document, the fee is justified by the need to provide sanitary services to residents and guests of Odesa, as well as the economic feasibility of the utility company.

Last year, the Odesa City Council considered amendments to the City Target Program"Barrier-Free Odesa" for 2023-2028, with a total funding of over UAH 688 million. The program envisages the creation of inclusive infrastructure, including the arrangement of special routes, beaches, and public restrooms.

One of the most controversial items was the installation of four automated toilets in 2025, costing UAH 5.7 million each. In four years, the city plans to equip 19 such toilets.

Анна Бальчінос