Las Vegas vs Arlington
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Las Vegas, NV and Arlington, TX.
| Requirement | Las Vegas, NV | Arlington, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | UPC | IPC |
| Min. Trap Size | 750 gallons minimum for gravity grease interceptors; hydromechanical interceptors sized per fixture count and flow rate per UPC tables (minimum 20 GPM) | 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 interceptor capacity | Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Health permit for food establishments includes FOG compliance; separate grease hauler permits also required | Contact Water Resource Services at 817-459-5902 |
| Max Fine | $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations | Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code |
| Inspections | Annual inspections as part of health permit and sewer discharge compliance | Periodic inspections by Water Resource Services |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | City of Las Vegas Public Works Department and Clark County Water Reclamation District; Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) for food establishment inspections | City of Arlington Water Resource Services |
| Establishments | 5,457 | 4,506 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, Las Vegas (NV) and Arlington (TX) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- Las Vegas 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: Las Vegas 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: Las Vegas penalties can reach $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations, 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 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 (UPC 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 Las Vegas and Arlington?
Las Vegas 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: Las Vegas requires "Every 90 days minimum", whereas Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Las Vegas or Arlington?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Las Vegas fines: $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations. 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 Las Vegas and Arlington?
Las Vegas: Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of interceptor capacity. Arlington: Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule.
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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