How far does a toilet have to be from a side wall or vanity?
A water closet must sit at least 15 inches from its centerline to any side wall, partition, or vanity, and 30 inches center-to-center from an adjacent fixture (IRC P2705.1).
The IRC requires the center of a toilet to be no less than 15 inches (381 mm) from any side wall, partition, or vanity cabinet. When the toilet is centered, that leaves a minimum 30-inch-wide space.
Where two fixtures sit side by side, their centerlines must be at least 30 inches (762 mm) apart. The same 15-inch side rule also applies to a lavatory and a bidet.
These are code minimums. Many layouts allow more room for comfort and easier access.
Need this scoped to your jurisdiction?
Adopted edition and local amendments vary by city and county. Ask Donnie checks your jurisdiction and cites the exact adopted section.
Ask Donnie →General information based on the International Residential Code (a model code). This is AI assistance to verify — not legal advice. Confirm the adopted edition and any local amendments with your local building department (AHJ) and a licensed professional before you build.