Arlington vs Austin
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison betweenArlington, TX and Austin, TX.
| Requirement | Arlington, TX | Austin, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC | UPC (Austin has historically used UPC with local amendments; Texas state code is IPC but Austin maintains UPC-based local requirements) |
| Min. Trap Size | Based on total potential flow from all food prep/handling/serving fixtures per city sizing spreadsheet | Grease interceptors less than 100 gallons classified as grease traps (under-sink); gravity interceptors for FSEs sized per Austin Water Utility Design Criteria, minimum 750 gallons for full-service restaurants; sizing based on fixture count and flow rate |
| Pumping Frequency | Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule | Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of wetted capacity |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Contact Water Resource Services at 817-459-5902 | FOG permit/registration required through Austin Water; fees vary by facility size |
| Max Fine | Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code | $2,000 per violation per day under Austin City Code; additional penalties for causing SSOs |
| Inspections | Periodic inspections by Water Resource Services | Austin Water Industrial Waste & Water Protection Division conducts inspections; annually for FSEs with compliance issues; routine inspections on risk-based schedule |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | City of Arlington Water Resource Services | Austin Water Utility, Industrial Waste & Water Protection Division |
| Establishments | 4,506 | 3,440 |
Key Differences
Even though both cities are in Texas, their FOG compliance requirements can differ significantly at the municipal level. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- Arlington follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC), while Austin uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards", whereas Austin requires "Every 90 days minimum".
- Both cities enforce the 25% rule, requiring grease traps to be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of the trap's capacity.
- Fines differ: Arlington penalties can reach Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code, compared to $2,000 per violation per day under Austin City Code; additional penalties for causing SSOs in Austin.
What This Means for Restaurant Operators
If you operate food service establishments in both cities, understanding these regulatory differences is critical for compliance. Permit requirements vary, so check with each city's wastewater authority before opening a new location. Different plumbing codes (IPC vs UPC (Austin has historically used UPC with local amendments; Texas state code is IPC but Austin maintains UPC-based local requirements)) mean trap sizing calculations may produce different results for the same kitchen setup. Always verify current requirements directly with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do grease trap requirements compare between Arlington and Austin?
Arlington follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC), while Austin uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards", whereas Austin requires "Every 90 days minimum".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Arlington or Austin?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Arlington fines: Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code. Austin fines: $2,000 per violation per day under Austin City Code; additional penalties for causing SSOs. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Arlington and Austin?
Arlington: Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule. Austin: Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of wetted capacity.
Last verified: — Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions.
Operating in Both Cities?
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