Houston vs Arlington
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison betweenHouston, TX and Arlington, TX.
| Requirement | Houston, TX | Arlington, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Houston amends locally) | IPC |
| Min. Trap Size | Verify required type and sizing with Houston permitting and the applicable plumbing code before installation | Based on total potential flow from all food prep/handling/serving fixtures per city sizing spreadsheet |
| Pumping Frequency | Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspection program | Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule |
| 25% Rule | — | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Current FOG Generator permit fee must be confirmed with the Houston Health Department | Contact Water Resource Services at 817-459-5902 |
| Max Fine | Check the current Houston Code of Ordinances and enforcement notice for the applicable violation | Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code |
| Inspections | Grease-trap inspections are handled by the City of Houston; confirm the applicable schedule directly | Periodic inspections by Water Resource Services |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | Houston Public Works and Engineering Department; Houston Health Department (grease transporter licensing) | City of Arlington Water Resource Services |
| Establishments | 10,038 | 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:
- Houston 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: Houston requires "Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspect", whereas Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards".
- Arlington enforces the 25% rule (traps must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity), while Houston does not explicitly enforce this standard.
- Fines differ: Houston penalties can reach Check the current Houston Code of Ordinances and enforcement notice for the applicable violation, 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; Houston amends locally) 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 Houston and Arlington?
Houston 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: Houston requires "Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspect", whereas Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Houston or Arlington?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Houston fines: Check the current Houston Code of Ordinances and enforcement notice for the applicable violation. 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 Houston and Arlington?
Houston: Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspection program. 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.
Operating in Both Cities?
Use our sizing calculator to find the right grease trap for each location.
Open Calculator