Chicago Grease Trap Maintenance & Compliance Checklist

Chicago Municipal Code Requirements for Grease Traps

Chicago requires all food service facilities to install and maintain grease traps or grease interceptors sized according to flow capacity and food waste volume. Facilities must comply with Chapter 41 of the Chicago Municipal Code and plumbing code standards. The Department of Public Health inspects grease trap installations, sizing certifications, and maintenance records during routine food service inspections. Grease interceptors must be accessible for cleaning and inspection, with properly functioning lids and drain plugs. Size calculations must be documented and available for inspectors to verify compliance with municipal standards.

Maintenance Schedule & Inspection Checklist Items

Grease traps must be cleaned when they reach 25% capacity—not waiting until full—to prevent overflow and kitchen drainage backup. Weekly visual inspections should verify that water flows freely, no grease accumulates on the surface, and the trap is odor-free. Monthly documentation of pumping and cleaning must be kept on-site for inspector review. Check that the trap has a secured, properly fitted lid to prevent pests and contamination. Ensure all inlet and outlet pipes are clear of blockages, the drain plug functions correctly, and the unit shows no visible cracks or structural damage that could allow grease to bypass treatment.

Common Chicago Health Code Violations & How to Avoid Them

Inspectors cite violations for grease traps that are oversized, undersized, or improperly installed without city approval—verify sizing certificates match your facility's actual flow. Lack of maintenance documentation is a critical violation; keep detailed records of every cleaning with dates, contractor names, and waste disposal confirmation. Grease disposed of down the drain instead of into the trap, overflowing traps, and evidence of grease buildup in floor drains or the sewer line trigger serious citations. Never install a grease trap without a permit or attempt to bypass the system using chemical treatments as a substitute for mechanical cleaning. Non-compliance can result in fines up to $500 per day plus mandatory corrective action ordered by the Department of Public Health.

Monitor violations in real-time with Panko Alerts. Start free.

Real-time food safety alerts from 25+ government sources. AI-scored by urgency. Less than one bad meal a month — $4.99/mo.