Chicago vs Fort Worth
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Chicago, IL and Fort Worth, TX.
| Requirement | Chicago, IL | Fort Worth, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (Chicago Building Code based on International Plumbing Code with local amendments) | IPC (Texas adopted IPC with local amendments) |
| Min. Trap Size | Grease interceptors sized per Chicago Building Code Section 18-29-1003.3.6 table; minimum 750 gallons for gravity interceptors for restaurants; hydromechanical grease interceptors rated at minimum 20 GPM for smaller facilities | 1,000 gallons minimum for exterior grease interceptors; hydromechanical grease interceptors (HGIs) must be minimum 50 GPM rated per UPC/manufacturer specs |
| Pumping Frequency | Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full (whichever comes first) | At minimum every 90 days; must be pumped when FOG and solids accumulate to 25% of wetted depth |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Sewer discharge permit required; FOG registration included with building/sewer permits. Permit fees vary based on discharge volume | Included with Industrial Waste Discharge permit; no separate FOG fee typically published |
| Max Fine | $1,000 per day per violation under Chicago Municipal Code; repeat offenders face escalating fines | $2,000 per violation per day (Class C misdemeanor under city code); up to $10,000/day for industrial pretreatment violations |
| Inspections | Chicago Department of Water Management conducts inspections; frequency based on compliance history, typically annually for FSEs | At least annually; high-risk facilities may be inspected quarterly |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | Chicago Department of Water Management | Fort Worth Water Department, Environmental Division / Pretreatment Section |
| Establishments | 12,246 | 4,506 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, Chicago (IL) and Fort Worth (TX) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- Chicago follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Fort Worth uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: Chicago requires "Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full (whichever comes first)", whereas Fort Worth requires "At 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: Chicago penalties can reach $1,000 per day per violation under Chicago Municipal Code; repeat offenders face escalating fines, compared to $2,000 per violation per day (Class C misdemeanor under city code); up to $10,000/day for industrial pretreatment violations in Fort Worth.
What This Means for Restaurant Operators
If you operate food service establishments in either city, 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 (Chicago Building Code based on International Plumbing Code with local amendments) vs IPC (Texas adopted IPC with local amendments)) 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 Chicago and Fort Worth?
Chicago follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Fort Worth uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: Chicago requires "Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full (whichever comes first)", whereas Fort Worth requires "At minimum every 90 days".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Chicago or Fort Worth?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Chicago fines: $1,000 per day per violation under Chicago Municipal Code; repeat offenders face escalating fines. Fort Worth fines: $2,000 per violation per day (Class C misdemeanor under city code); up to $10,000/day for industrial pretreatment violations. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Chicago and Fort Worth?
Chicago: Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full (whichever comes first). Fort Worth: At minimum every 90 days; must be pumped when FOG and solids accumulate to 25% of wetted depth.
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?
Use our sizing calculator to find the right grease trap for each location.
Open Calculator