A latrine is a method of disposal of human waste used in rural areas and much of the developing world. Many variations exist, but at its simplest, the principle is that waste is controlled and decomposed into harmless by-products.

• Pit latrines are the simplest types, sometimes just a hole in the ground covered with a floor plate. A dry pit does not penetrate the water table, while a wet pit does. Adding a ventilating pipe is the key improvement of the ventilated improved pit latrine, a design that helps reduce unpleasant smells and fly problems. See outhouse.

• A water privy is a situation where a watertight tank receives the waste and sends it to an underground seepage pit or drainage area.

See also

• Outhouse
• Pit toilet
• Septic tank
• Sewer
• Waste disposal