Houston vs San Antonio
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Houston, TX and San Antonio, TX.
| Requirement | Houston, TX | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Houston amends locally) | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide) |
| 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 | 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 | Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full | 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 | Grease trap permit/registration required; fees approximately $100-$250 depending on establishment size | FOG permit/registration through SAWS; fees approximately $75-$200 annually |
| Max Fine | $2,000 per violation per day under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 47; repeat violations up to $4,000/day | $2,000 per violation per day under City of San Antonio ordinance; SAWS can also assess surcharges for non-compliance |
| Inspections | Houston Health Department and Public Works conduct inspections; typically annually or upon complaint | SAWS conducts routine inspections; typically annually for FSEs; increased frequency for repeat violators |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | Houston Public Works and Engineering Department; Houston Health Department (grease transporter licensing) | San Antonio Water System (SAWS) |
| Establishments | 10,038 | 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:
- Houston follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while San Antonio 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 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: 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 $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 (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Houston amends locally) 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 Houston and San Antonio?
Houston follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while San Antonio 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 San Antonio requires "Every 90 days minimum".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Houston or San Antonio?
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. 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 Houston and San Antonio?
Houston: Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full. 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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