Understanding FOG Compliance for Los Angeles Restaurants

If you operate a restaurant or food service establishment in Los Angeles, FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) compliance is not optional — it is a regulatory requirement enforced by LA Sanitation and your local sewer authority.

What is FOG?

FOG stands for Fats, Oils, and Grease — byproducts of cooking that can accumulate in sewer lines, causing blockages, overflows, and environmental damage. Los Angeles County requires food service establishments to install and maintain grease traps or interceptors to prevent FOG from entering the public sewer system.

Key Requirements

1. Grease Trap/Interceptor Installation: All food service establishments must have a properly sized grease trap or interceptor.

2. Regular Pumping: Traps and interceptors must be pumped before they reach 25% capacity. For most restaurants, this means every 30-90 days.

3. Licensed Haulers: Only licensed waste haulers may pump and transport grease trap waste. Always verify your vendor holds valid permits.

4. Documentation: Maintain records of all pump-outs including dates, hauler information, volume removed, and disposal manifests.

5. Inspections: Be prepared for routine inspections by your local sewer authority. Having organized compliance documentation is essential.

How GreaseGrid Helps

GreaseGrid Concierge simplifies FOG compliance by coordinating licensed vendors, managing your pumping schedule, and automatically generating compliance documentation after each service. Our proof packets include before/after photos, service receipts, manifests, and complete service records.

Note: GreaseGrid is a coordination platform. All pumping services are performed by independent, licensed vendors.