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Fat, Oil, & Grease Program

Why FOG Control Matters

When grease and oils go down drains, they cool, harden, and combine with other debris to create blockages that lead to sewer backups, property damage, and environmental harm. Even small amounts add up—one restaurant can discharge gallons a day if unmanaged.

FOG blockages can also trigger permit violations with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). Madison Utilities works with residents and food service businesses to manage grease properly and stay in compliance.

FOG Program for Restaurants and Food Service Businesses

Madison Utilities’ Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) Program applies to food service establishments and other commercial businesses that generate grease as part of their operations. Improper disposal of fats, oils, and grease can damage the wastewater system, cause backups and overflows, and result in regulatory violations. To protect public infrastructure and ensure compliance with state and local requirements, businesses are required to follow the program’s installation, maintenance, and recordkeeping standards, with enforcement actions applied for noncompliance.

Commercial and Food Service Requirements

Madison Utilities requires all food service establishments (FSEs) to install and maintain approved grease control devices, such as grease traps or interceptors. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning are essential to prevent grease from entering the public sewer system.

Food service establishments must:
  • Install a grease interceptor sized and approved by Madison Utilities.
  • Maintain traps and interceptors regularly to ensure proper operation.
  • Place yellow grease in proper recycling containers; never discharge to sewer or stormwater.
  • Keep service and cleaning records onsite for at least three years.
  • Pump all interceptors every 90 days unless a variance is approved.
  • Allow Madison Utilities staff to perform inspections and compliance reviews.
  • Report any spills, overflows, or equipment failures immediately.

Grease Trap Maintenance

Routine cleaning and maintenance are critical for keeping grease interceptors effective. Failing to pump and maintain grease traps can cause overflow, odors, and costly downtime for businesses.
Maintenance guidelines:
  • Grease traps should be cleaned at least once every 90 days, or more often if 25% of the tank’s volume is full of solids or grease.
  • All waste from trap cleaning must be hauled and disposed of by a licensed waste handler in accordance with state and local laws.
  • Inspect traps regularly to ensure baffles, tees, and flow restrictors are intact and functioning properly.
  • Maintain inspection logs that document dates of cleaning, hauler information, and disposal site.

Reporting and Enforcement

Madison Utilities conducts regular inspections of commercial grease control devices to ensure compliance with the FOG Program. Failure to properly maintain traps or repeated violations can result in fines, surcharges, or suspension of sewer service until issues are corrected.

To report an overflow, malfunction, or suspected grease-related issue, contact Madison Utilities at 256-772-0253 during business hours or 256-508-8916 after hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the FOG Program?

The FOG Program helps reduce blockages and sewer overflows caused by fats, oils, and grease. It educates the public and enforces maintenance requirements for food service establishments.

Who must comply with the FOG Program?
All commercial food service establishments—including restaurants, cafeterias, schools, hotels, and convenience stores with kitchens—must comply with Madison Utilities’ grease control requirements.
How often should grease traps be cleaned?
Grease traps should be cleaned every 90 days or whenever grease and solids reach 25% of the total tank volume.
Who do I contact for FOG Program questions or inspections?

Contact the Madison Utilities Engineering or Wastewater Department at 256-772-0253 for assistance or to schedule a compliance inspection.

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Madison, AL 35758
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