What is FOG?

It is an acronym for Fats, Oils, and Grease. FOG is any combination of animal fats and/or vegetable oils that are used to prepare or are found in food.

Why must I have my grease traps cleaned?

When discharged into sewer lines, FOG accumulates and clogs the pipes in the sewer system.

How often do I need to clean my grease trap?

A grease trap should be cleaned a minimum of once every 90 days or when it is 25% full of FOG and/or other settled waste.

How do I know if I am required to hire a grease hauler to clean my trap?

If your grease trap is rated to process a water flow of 50 gallons per minute or more, you must hire a certified grease hauler.

Who can I hire to clean my grease traps?

You can hire only certified grease haulers that are permitted by the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (HRPDC).

Are there performance standards that the grease hauler must comply with when cleaning my trap?

Yes. HRPDC has established performance standards for all certified grease haulers which requires them to pump the entire contents of the trap, then scrap the sides, the lid and the baffles as needed.

Am I required to maintain a maintenance record file?

Yes. For a period of 3 years, all service records which contain name of business, the date and time of service, total volume of waste removed including water, condition and maintenance concerns of trap, appropriate signatures, and hauler information. The hauler information will include the driver’s name, type of waste (details on mixed waste), disposal site, and signatures.