Houston vs Las Vegas
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Houston, TX and Las Vegas, NV.
| Requirement | Houston, TX | Las Vegas, NV |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Houston amends locally) | UPC |
| Min. Trap Size | Minimum 750 gallons for gravity grease interceptors for food service establishments; sizing based on fixture count and flow rate per Houston Plumbing Code; hydromechanical interceptors minimum 20 GPM | 750 gallons minimum for gravity grease interceptors; hydromechanical interceptors sized per fixture count and flow rate per UPC tables (minimum 20 GPM) |
| Pumping Frequency | Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full | Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of interceptor capacity |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Grease trap permit/registration required; fees approximately $100-$250 depending on establishment size | Health permit for food establishments includes FOG compliance; separate grease hauler permits also required |
| Max Fine | $2,000 per violation per day under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 47; repeat violations up to $4,000/day | $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations |
| Inspections | Houston Health Department and Public Works conduct inspections; typically annually or upon complaint | Annual inspections as part of health permit and sewer discharge compliance |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | Houston Public Works and Engineering Department; Houston Health Department (grease transporter licensing) | City of Las Vegas Public Works Department and Clark County Water Reclamation District; Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) for food establishment inspections |
| Establishments | 10,038 | 5,457 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, Houston (TX) and Las Vegas (NV) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- Houston follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Las Vegas uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: Houston requires "Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full", whereas Las Vegas 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: Houston penalties can reach $2,000 per violation per day under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 47; repeat violations up to $4,000/day, compared to $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations in Las Vegas.
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 (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Houston amends locally) vs UPC) 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 Las Vegas?
Houston follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Las Vegas uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: Houston requires "Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full", whereas Las Vegas requires "Every 90 days minimum".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Houston or Las Vegas?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Houston fines: $2,000 per violation per day under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 47; repeat violations up to $4,000/day. Las Vegas fines: $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Houston and Las Vegas?
Houston: Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full. Las Vegas: Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of interceptor capacity.
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