This page provides information on the types of patents and types of patent applications, and the examination process. The answer to the contested question of "should a toilet paper roll face over or under when on the holder?" is answered.The answer is it should face OVER. Due to the enactment of the America Invents Act in 2012, this page contains forms for patent applications filed on or after September 16, 2012. A quirky little piece of the Empire State's history, the first toilet paper patent was given out to a New York business man back in 1891. SPECIFICATION forming part of Letters Patent No. 465,588, dated December 22, 1891. A guide to help ASU students find patent information including what is a patent, the different sections of a patent, how to do a prior art search. Contents of Phoenix City Code. Toilet paper should always be within arms reach. You should never have to rise up to reach it.