NYC Grease Trap Maintenance Checklist for Food Service

NYC Grease Trap Requirements & Local Regulations

NYC Administrative Code Section 24-517 mandates that all food service establishments install properly sized grease interceptors or traps based on fixture count and flow rate. The DEP requires traps to be inspected, cleaned, and serviced at minimum quarterly, with more frequent service for high-volume operations. Establishments must maintain a grease management system (GMS) permit and keep documentation of all maintenance and pumping activities on-site for DEP review. Trap capacity, location, accessibility, and signage are all subject to inspection during routine facility audits. Non-compliance can result in fines ranging from $500 to $5,000 per violation and potential operating suspension.

Essential Inspection Checklist Items

Verify trap size matches your establishment's daily wastewater volume and number of connected fixtures (sinks, dishwashers, fryers). Inspect the trap interior quarterly for accumulated grease, solids, and structural damage using a flashlight and depth gauge. Document the depth of grease and solids layers; if combined depth exceeds 25% of trap capacity, schedule immediate pumping. Check inlet and outlet pipes for blockages, corrosion, or deterioration that could cause bypass or discharge into public sewers. Confirm drain covers are secure, properly sealed, and free of cracks; ensure the access area is clear and well-lit for technician entry. Verify water temperature at the trap inlet does not exceed 140°F to prevent grease from liquefying and passing through untreated.

Common NYC Violations & How to Avoid Them

The most frequently cited violations include grease accumulation exceeding safe levels, missing or outdated maintenance records, and failure to pump on the required schedule. Improper disposal of cooking oil directly into drains—instead of using designated storage containers—is a major red flag during inspections and can result in significant fines. Establishments often fail to keep current GMS permits visible or lack signed service contracts with DEP-certified haulers, which are mandatory documentation items. Undersized traps that cannot handle peak flow periods lead to grease bypassing into the sewer system; upgrade sizing if you've expanded operations or menu complexity. Missing inlet strainers, damaged baffles, or improper trap construction are structural defects that inspectors prioritize. Schedule professional cleaning services only with DEP-registered waste haulers and request detailed receipts showing pumping date, waste weight, and proper disposal records.

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