Arlington vs El Paso
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Arlington, TX and El Paso, TX.
| Requirement | Arlington, TX | El Paso, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC | IPC |
| Min. Trap Size | Based on total potential flow from all food prep/handling/serving fixtures per city sizing spreadsheet | 750 gallons (gravity interceptor); smaller point-of-use units sized per fixture count and flow rate |
| Pumping Frequency | Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule | Minimum every 90 days; more frequently if 25% rule is triggered |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Contact Water Resource Services at 817-459-5902 | No separate FOG permit fee published; covered under wastewater discharge permit |
| Max Fine | Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code | $2,000 per violation per day |
| Inspections | Periodic inspections by Water Resource Services | At least annually; high-risk facilities inspected more frequently |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | City of Arlington Water Resource Services | El Paso Water (EPWater) - Wastewater Pretreatment Division |
| Establishments | 4,506 | 1,814 |
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:
- Both cities follow the International Plumbing Code (IPC), so trap sizing and installation standards are similar at the code level.
- Pumping schedules differ: Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards", whereas El Paso requires "Minimum every 90 days".
- 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 in El Paso.
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. 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 El Paso?
Both cities follow the International Plumbing Code (IPC), so trap sizing and installation standards are similar at the code level. Pumping schedules differ: Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards", whereas El Paso requires "Minimum every 90 days".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Arlington or El Paso?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Arlington fines: Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code. El Paso fines: $2,000 per violation per day. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Arlington and El Paso?
Arlington: Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule. El Paso: Minimum every 90 days; more frequently if 25% rule is triggered.
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions. Last updated: March 2026.
Operating in Both Cities?
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