Grease Interceptor GuidelinesCity of Cypress
Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) Program
Grease Interceptor Guidelines
Important: Read ALL pages BEFORE installing any grease interceptor devices
What is the FOG program?
The FOG program applies to all food service establishments (FSEs) that have been designated as
generators of grease during the food preparation process. The program is intended to protect local
waterways from sanitary sewer overflows caused by grease build up in the sanitary sewer. The
program includes:
Maintenance of all kitchen equipment
Installation of adequate-sized grease control devices to collect generated grease
Maintenance and cleaning of grease control devices
Up to date record keeping (cleaning/servicing, maintenance, employee training)
Facility inspections performed by the City inspector
FOG Program Inspections
Facilities with grease interceptors are inspected throughout the year to ensure proper maintenance
of all grease control devices and to verify that kitchen best management practices are being
implemented.
What is a Grease Interceptor?
A grease interceptor is an outdoor, underground multi-compartment tank that reduces the amount
of pollution (FOG) in wastewater, before being discharged through the sanitary sewer system.
Grease Interceptor Installation
Requirements
Each new grease interceptor that is installed to replace or upgrade an existing grease interceptor is required
to meet all criteria in the current California Plumbing Code. Please review all requirements before
installing a grease interceptor.
Requirements:
1. Size and location of interceptor to be approved prior to installation
MINIMUM tank size shall be 750 GAL.
2. Interceptor to have:
A. Sample box (MUST be installed)
B. Sanitary tee (inside sample box, discharge side)
C. Vent
D. Cleanout prior to lateral connection
E. Manhole at each internal baffle tube (no more than 10 feet between manholes)
3. Grade/Pavement with a CONCRETE COLLAR (pictured below) a MINIMUM of 18” around all
manhole lids and 12” deep.
*Concrete collar, sample box fitting, and all exterior piping supplied by installer
4. All manholes and sample boxes MUST be installed approximately 1/2” above finish grade with gentle slope
to existing.
5. Inspection of Interceptor:
All connections to interceptor to be inspected by City prior to backfill, interceptor to be filled with
water prior to inspection, per manufacturers instruction or request.
Example of Concrete Collar
18”
Typical
Example of a Correctly Installed
Grease Interceptor
18” Concrete
Around Lids
Concrete
Collar (at
least 12”
deep)
3 Lids
Sample Box
* picture not to scale
18”