Step 8 — Grease Interceptor / FOG Approval

What Is FOG / Grease Interceptor Approval?

FOG stands for Fats, Oils, and Grease — a primary cause of sewer blockages and overflows. Atlanta's Department of Watershed Management requires all grease-producing food service establishments to install an approved grease interceptor (also called a grease trap) before connecting to the public sewer system.

Approval is required before your Certificate of Occupancy can be issued.

Why It Matters

Operating without an approved grease interceptor violates Atlanta's Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) Control Ordinance. Violations result in fines, mandatory shut-off of sewer connection, and potential closure.

Requirements

Size: Your grease interceptor must be sized by a licensed plumber or engineer based on your kitchen equipment and expected grease output. Atlanta's Watershed Management must approve the sizing.

Location: Exterior interceptors are preferred. Interior "hydromechanical" grease interceptors are permitted in certain situations with pre-approval.

Installation: Must be installed by a licensed plumber and inspected by Watershed Management before backfilling (if exterior) or use (if interior).

How to Apply

1. Submit a FOG Control Permit Application to Atlanta Watershed Management
2. Include plumbing plans showing interceptor size, location, and connection to the sewer
3. Schedule an installation inspection
4. Receive your FOG Approval Letter

Atlanta Department of Watershed Management — FOG Control Program Phone: (404) 546-1503 Website: atlantawatershed.org

Ongoing Requirements

Once open, your grease interceptor must be pumped and cleaned regularly — typically every 30 to 90 days depending on interceptor size and kitchen volume. A manifest from a licensed hauler must be kept on file. See the ongoing article on Grease Trap / FOG Records for details.

What SpoonSeal tracks

The document(s) you upload for this requirement, with automatic renewal/expiration tracking (Current, Due Soon, Expired). Where the city publishes health-inspection results (e.g., NYC and Chicago), SpoonSeal syncs them automatically; elsewhere they can be added manually.