Lying dormant under Perth's entertainment precinct by day, the nation's first retractable public toilet is designed to hydraulically lift into action by night.

The Uri-Lift was installed in the nightlife hotspot of Northbridge, providing revellers with an innovative alternative to public urination on weekends.

The self-cleaning, stainless steel urinal is connected directly to the city’s sewerage system, and uses significantly less water than traditional public toilets, according to City of Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi.

“We know there is a demand for more public toilets and the Uri-Lift is a solution that does not compromise the aesthetics of its surrounding public spaces,” Ms Scaffidi said.