San Francisco Grease Trap Requirements & Compliance Guide

San Francisco Grease Trap Regulations & Local Requirements

San Francisco requires all food service establishments to install and maintain grease traps or grease interceptors sized according to the San Francisco Building and Fire Code. The Department of Public Health mandates that grease traps be pumped out when they reach 25% capacity—not when they're full. Food facilities must have documentation of all grease trap maintenance and cleaning performed by licensed haulers. Non-compliance can result in violations, fines up to $1,000 per violation, and potential operating restrictions.

Inspection & Enforcement by SF Health Department

San Francisco's Environmental Health Section conducts routine and complaint-driven inspections of food establishments to verify grease trap compliance. Inspectors check for proper sizing, maintenance records, and signs of grease discharge into city sewers. The city uses SCADA monitoring and sewer blockage reports to identify non-compliant facilities. Violations are documented on health inspection reports and tracked by the Health Department's online system, which is publicly accessible.

Best Practices for SF Grease Trap Maintenance

Schedule regular pumping with a licensed hauler at least quarterly—more frequently if your facility generates high grease volumes. Keep detailed maintenance logs including dates, company name, and capacity levels at service time. Install drain screens and strainers to capture food solids before they enter the trap. Train kitchen staff to minimize grease disposal down drains and follow local water-saving guidelines. Monitor your system regularly for signs of blockage, odors, or backups and address issues immediately.

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