Petrol station charges for toilet use, sparking debate in Norway

A small Esso petrol station in Bostrak, Drangedal, has introduced a 10-krone fee for toilet use without purchase, triggering strong reactions locally and online, reports Drangedalsposten.

Owners Amy Duisterwinkel and Gerben Van Engelen say the measure follows years of misuse by customers who used the facilities without buying anything. “People urinated on the floor and left used toilet paper on top of the bin—not inside. It was disgusting,” Van Engelen told the newspaper. “We couldn’t keep it like that.”

The fee applies only to non-paying customers; those who make even a small purchase, such as gum, still access the toilet for free. Van Engelen, originally from the Netherlands, emphasized that maintaining cleanliness costs money. “Service isn’t free,” he said.

Reactions on social media have been divided. Some support the move, citing cleaner facilities, while others threaten boycotts or call the station “greedy.” One commenter suggested the business should close if it relies on toilet fees. Van Engelen dismissed the criticism, noting that the fee isn’t a primary revenue source but a deterrent against misuse.

Supporters point to similar practices in Denmark and elsewhere in Europe, where paid toilets are common. Van Engelen confirmed the policy would remain: “We won’t back down. Service isn’t free.”