New York’s ‘10-Minute Toilet’ Goes Viral: Warning Sirens, Flashing Lights and a Door That Opens if You Stay Too Long
Imagine sitting inside a public toilet when a voice suddenly tells you that your time is running out. That unusual scenario could soon become a reality for New Yorkers as the city rolls out high-tech public toilets with a strict 10-minute usage limit. After multiple warnings, the door will eventually open automatically if the user does not leave.
Imagine sitting inside a public toilet when a voice suddenly tells you that your time is running out. That unusual scenario could soon become a reality for New Yorkers as the city rolls out high-tech public toilets with a strict 10-minute usage limit. After multiple warnings, the door will eventually open automatically if the user does not leave.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the launch of a one-year, $4 million pilot programme on September 16, with 17 modular public toilets being installed across the city's five boroughs. The free facilities are designed and operated by Throne Labs and are intended to improve access to public restrooms in high-traffic areas.
What Happens When The 10 Minutes Are Over?
The toilets feature an automated system that keeps track of how long someone remains inside.
At the five-minute mark, the background music stops and a voice reminds users that half their allotted time has passed. At eight minutes, another warning tells them that their session is nearing its end and asks them to prepare to leave. New York Subway Accident Video: Indian-Origin Woman Malaika Chitre, Nepali-American Friend Navam Kaul Killed by Train.
When 10 minutes are reached, flashing lights activate and an automated announcement informs the user that their allotted time is over. There is then a short buffer before the door eventually opens. Throne Labs COO Jessica Heinzelman said users receive several warnings before the door opens.
New York’s New Public Toilets Will Open Automatically After 10 Minutes, Leaving Users Racing Against Time
Mayor Mamdani Holds Press Conference to Make Infrastructure Announcement
— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) September 16, 2026
Why Will The Doors Open Automatically?
According to city officials and Throne Labs, the system is designed to prevent prolonged stays and keep the facilities available for other people. The warning system is also intended to address potential misuse and help manage the facilities efficiently.
There is currently no option to extend the 10-minute period, although Throne Labs said it is working on a possible solution for people with mobility challenges or ongoing health conditions.
Mamdani also had a message for users tempted to spend extra time inside: “This is not a place to scroll on your phone.” Desi Baraat 'Shuts Down' Wall Street: 400-Person Grand Indian Wedding Procession Takes Over NYC Street, Reactions Pour In As Video Goes Viral.
Where Will New York’s New Toilets Be Available?
The city is installing 17 modular public toilets across all five boroughs as part of the pilot. They will be free to use and operate daily from 7 AM to 10 PM.
Users can access them through a text message, QR code, the Throne Bathroom Network app or a physical tap card distributed through community partners.
Each unit includes a flushing toilet, running-water sink, climate control and a baby-changing station. The toilets are also designed to be ADA accessible and touchless.
New York’s Unusual Race Against The Clock
The pilot comes as the city attempts to address its shortage of public restrooms. The modular units can be installed without connecting to existing water, sewer or power infrastructure, allowing them to be deployed or relocated relatively easily.
For New Yorkers, however, the new facilities come with an unusual rule: use the toilet, but keep an eye on the clock.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 18, 2026 03:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
