Arlington vs San Antonio
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Arlington, TX and San Antonio, TX.
| Requirement | Arlington, TX | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide) |
| Min. Trap Size | Based on total potential flow from all food prep/handling/serving fixtures per city sizing spreadsheet | Minimum 750 gallons for gravity grease interceptors for FSEs; sizing per SAWS requirements and Texas Plumbing Code; smaller hydromechanical interceptors (20-50 GPM) allowed for limited food prep |
| Pumping Frequency | Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule | Every 90 days minimum; SAWS Grease Trap Procedure Manual specifies cleaning must occur before grease and solids exceed 25% of trap capacity |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Contact Water Resource Services at 817-459-5902 | FOG permit/registration through SAWS; fees approximately $75-$200 annually |
| Max Fine | Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code | $2,000 per violation per day under City of San Antonio ordinance; SAWS can also assess surcharges for non-compliance |
| Inspections | Periodic inspections by Water Resource Services | SAWS conducts routine inspections; typically annually for FSEs; increased frequency for repeat violators |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | City of Arlington Water Resource Services | San Antonio Water System (SAWS) |
| Establishments | 4,506 | 4,282 |
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 San Antonio uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards", whereas San Antonio 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 City of San Antonio ordinance; SAWS can also assess surcharges for non-compliance in San Antonio.
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 IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide)) 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 San Antonio?
Arlington follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC), while San Antonio uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards", whereas San Antonio requires "Every 90 days minimum".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Arlington or San Antonio?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Arlington fines: Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code. San Antonio fines: $2,000 per violation per day under City of San Antonio ordinance; SAWS can also assess surcharges for non-compliance. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Arlington and San Antonio?
Arlington: Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule. San Antonio: Every 90 days minimum; SAWS Grease Trap Procedure Manual specifies cleaning must occur before grease and solids exceed 2.
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions. Last updated: March 2026.
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