Grease Trap / FOG Records
Atlanta requires restaurants to pump and clean grease interceptors regularly and maintain hauler manifests as proof. These records are inspected by Watershed Management.
Overview
Atlanta's FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) Control Ordinance requires all food service establishments to maintain their grease interceptor in proper working condition and keep records of cleaning and pumping.
Required Cleaning Frequency
Cleaning frequency depends on your interceptor size and kitchen output. Atlanta Watershed Management uses the 25% rule: your interceptor must be pumped before grease and solids occupy more than 25% of its working capacity.
Typical frequencies:
- Small indoor hydromechanical interceptors: Monthly
- Medium exterior interceptors (500–1,000 gallon): Every 1–2 months
- Large exterior interceptors (1,000+ gallon): Every 2–3 months
Your licensed hauler can advise on the appropriate frequency based on your interceptor size and cooking volume.
Who Can Service Your Interceptor
Grease interceptors must be pumped by a Georgia-licensed grease hauler. Verify your hauler's license through the Georgia Environmental Protection Division.
What Proof You Receive
After each service, your hauler must provide a Waste Manifest that includes:
- Date of service
- Hauler company name and license number
- Your facility name and address
- Interceptor size and location
- Gallons of grease/waste removed
- Disposal site certification
- Technician signature
Retain manifests for a minimum of 3 years — Atlanta Watershed Management may request records going back this far.
Who May Request This Proof
- Atlanta Watershed Management — conducts FOG compliance inspections
- Health inspector — may review as part of routine health inspection
- Landlord — often required by lease
- Restaurant buyer — due diligence requirement
Atlanta Department of Watershed Management — FOG Control Phone: (404) 546-1503 Website: atlantawatershed.org
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.
Stay ahead of this requirement
SpoonSeal stores your documents, tracks expirations, and reminds you before anything lapses — so you are always inspection-ready.
Get started free →This guide is informational and not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the official agency linked above.