Dallas Grease Trap Compliance Checklist for Food Service

Dallas Grease Trap Installation & Sizing Requirements

The City of Dallas Health Department requires grease traps or grease interceptors sized appropriately for your facility's flow rate and frequency of use. All grease interceptors must be installed in compliance with the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and approved by the Dallas Department of Sustainable Development and Construction before activation. Size calculations are typically based on peak wastewater flow (gallons per minute) and the type of equipment draining into the system. Installation must be accessible for cleaning and inspection, with clearly marked access ports. Verify that your installation was permitted through the City of Dallas and maintain documentation of the approval certificate.

Maintenance, Cleaning & Inspection Frequency

Dallas Health Department inspectors expect grease traps to be pumped and cleaned regularly—typically every 30 days for high-volume operations, though your specific frequency depends on usage and capacity. Maintain detailed cleaning and maintenance logs documenting the date of service, waste removal volume, contractor name, and condition of the unit; these records must be available during inspections. All pumping and disposal must be performed by a licensed waste hauler approved by the City of Dallas, and disposal receipts should be retained for a minimum of one year. Check that baffle plates, baffles, and outlet pipes are free of grease buildup and functioning properly. Do not use chemical additives or enzyme treatments that claim to eliminate pumping—these are violations of TFER and City of Dallas ordinances.

Common Dallas Inspection Violations & Avoidance

Frequent citations include failure to maintain pumping records, undersized grease traps for the facility's volume, and improper disposal of waste (e.g., pouring grease down drains instead of the trap). Blocked or clogged discharge lines, deteriorated baffles allowing grease to enter the sewage system, and absence of proper labeling or access are also routine violations. Ensure staff training covers proper grease disposal procedures—all cooking oils and grease must be collected and disposed of separately through approved vendors, never poured into floor drains or the grease trap itself. Conduct monthly visual inspections of the trap exterior for leaks or corrosion, and verify that the lid is secure and properly sealed. During City of Dallas Health Department inspections, have your maintenance documentation ready and ensure the trap area is clean and accessible.

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