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1. What is FOG?

FOG is short for fats, oils and grease. FOG is found in foods such as meats, sauces, salad dressings, foods cooked in deep fat fryers, cookies, pastries, cheese, butter and many, many more. The FOG Program is a written agreement between the City and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) that went into effect on January 1, 2009. This program seeks to reduce the number of sewer system blockages and overflows caused by fats, oils and grease.

For more information, please call 512-393-8003.

2. What is a grease trap? How does it work?

A grease trap is a small reservoir built into wastewater piping a short distance from the grease producing area (typically the kitchen area). It is designed for the purpose of removing fats, oils, and grease and preventing them from entering the sanitary sewer system.

3. Do I need a grease trap?

A grease trap is required if your establishment generates FOG as a result of food manufacturing, processing, preparation or food service. Establishment such as restaurants, food processors, hospitals, hotels/motels, nursing homes, prisons and any other facility preparing, serving or making any foodstuff available for consumption may be required by the City to have a grease trap. For more information please call 512-393-8440.

4. What maintenance schedule is required for a grease trap?

Grease traps will be completely pumped out a minimum of every 90 days or more frequently when:
- 25% or more of the operational capacity contains FOG or sediment
- The discharge of FOG causes obstruction in the City's wastewater collection system
- The establishment has a history of non-compliance

For more information please call 512-393-8440.

5. What happens if I don't comply with the FOG program?

Any person who violates any provision of the FOG Ordinance will be subject to the following:
- 1st Violation: Written warning
- Subsequent fines for violations occurring within a 2-year period
-> 2nd Violation: $1,000 civil penalty
-> 3rd Violation: $1,500 civil penalty
-> 4th Violation: $2,000 civil penalty

If it is determined an establishment is responsible for a blockage of the City's sewer mains, the owner will owe a civil penalty for violations occurring within a 2-year period. The fines are as follows:
- $1,000 for the 1st violation
- $1,500 for the 2nd violation
- $2,000 for the 3rd violation

Note: Continuous violations will result in an increase in penalty by $500 and may result in termination of services. For more information please call 512-393-8440.