Miami vs Fort Lauderdale
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Miami, FL and Fort Lauderdale, FL.
| Requirement | Miami, FL | Fort Lauderdale, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (Florida Building Code, which is based on the International codes) | IPC |
| Min. Trap Size | Gravity grease interceptors: minimum 750-1,000 gallons depending on establishment size and fixture count. Hydromechanical grease interceptors (HGIs/under-sink): rated per GPM of connected fixtures per Florida Building Code. Sizing determined per FOG Control Device Guidance Manual formulas. | Per Florida Building Code (IPC-based) and Broward County requirements; sized by seating capacity and kitchen equipment |
| Pumping Frequency | As specified in FOG permit conditions; typically every 30-90 days depending on establishment volume. Must be pumped before grease and solids accumulate to 25% of the wetted depth of the interceptor. | Every 90 days typically; complete removal of all contents required (not just skimming) |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | Initial FOG-1 permit application fee approximately $200; annual renewal fee approximately $65. Fees subject to update per Miami-Dade fee schedule. | Per Broward County / City of Fort Lauderdale fee schedule; contact city for current amount |
| Max Fine | Up to $15,000 per day per violation under Miami-Dade County Code. Civil penalties and administrative enforcement actions including cease-and-desist orders. | $250 per failure to clean; up to $5,000 for repeat violations; plus license suspension possible |
| Inspections | Inspections conducted by Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) on a routine basis; typically annually for compliant FSEs, more frequently for high-risk or non-compliant establishments. Unannounced inspections authorized. | Regular inspections; restaurant employee must be present during grease trap cleaning |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department (WASD), Environmental Compliance Section; Miami-Dade Permitting and Inspection Center | City of Fort Lauderdale / Broward County Environmental Services |
| Establishments | 6,089 | 4,278 |
Key Differences
Even though both cities are in Florida, their FOG compliance requirements can differ significantly at the municipal level. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- Miami follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Fort Lauderdale uses the International Plumbing Code (IPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: Miami requires "As specified in FOG permit conditions", whereas Fort Lauderdale requires "Every 90 days typically".
- 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: Miami penalties can reach Up to $15,000 per day per violation under Miami-Dade County Code. Civil penalties and administrative enforcement actions including cease-and-desist orders., compared to $250 per failure to clean; up to $5,000 for repeat violations; plus license suspension possible in Fort Lauderdale.
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 (Florida Building Code, which is based on the International codes) 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 Miami and Fort Lauderdale?
Miami follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Fort Lauderdale uses the International Plumbing Code (IPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: Miami requires "As specified in FOG permit conditions", whereas Fort Lauderdale requires "Every 90 days typically".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Miami or Fort Lauderdale?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Miami fines: Up to $15,000 per day per violation under Miami-Dade County Code. Civil penalties and administrative enforcement actions including cease-and-desist orders.. Fort Lauderdale fines: $250 per failure to clean; up to $5,000 for repeat violations; plus license suspension possible. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Miami and Fort Lauderdale?
Miami: As specified in FOG permit conditions; typically every 30-90 days depending on establishment volume. Must be pumped befo. Fort Lauderdale: Every 90 days typically; complete removal of all contents required (not just skimming).
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