Dallas vs Arlington
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison betweenDallas, TX and Arlington, TX.
| Requirement | Dallas, TX | Arlington, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Dallas has local amendments) | IPC |
| Min. Trap Size | Minimum 750 gallons for gravity grease interceptors for FSEs; sizing per Dallas City Code and Texas Plumbing Code based on fixture count; hydromechanical grease interceptors minimum 20 GPM for limited food prep operations | Based on total potential flow from all food prep/handling/serving fixtures per city sizing spreadsheet |
| Pumping Frequency | Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of trap capacity | Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Grease trap permit required through Dallas Water Utilities Pretreatment Program; fees vary | Contact Water Resource Services at 817-459-5902 |
| Max Fine | $2,000 per violation per day under Dallas City Code; repeat violations subject to escalating enforcement including potential service disconnection | Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code |
| Inspections | Dallas Water Utilities Pretreatment Division conducts inspections; annually for permitted FSEs; more frequently for non-compliant facilities | Periodic inspections by Water Resource Services |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | Dallas Water Utilities, Pretreatment Division | City of Arlington Water Resource Services |
| Establishments | 6,049 | 4,506 |
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:
- Dallas follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Arlington uses the International Plumbing Code (IPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: Dallas requires "Every 90 days minimum", whereas Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards".
- 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: Dallas penalties can reach $2,000 per violation per day under Dallas City Code; repeat violations subject to escalating enforcement including potential service disconnection, compared to Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code in Arlington.
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 (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Dallas has local amendments) vs IPC) 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 Dallas and Arlington?
Dallas follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Arlington uses the International Plumbing Code (IPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: Dallas requires "Every 90 days minimum", whereas Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Dallas or Arlington?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Dallas fines: $2,000 per violation per day under Dallas City Code; repeat violations subject to escalating enforcement including potential service disconnection. Arlington fines: Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Dallas and Arlington?
Dallas: Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of trap capacity. Arlington: Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule.
Last verified: — Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions.
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