New York vs Houston
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between New York, NY and Houston, TX.
| Requirement | New York, NY | Houston, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (NYC Plumbing Code based on International Plumbing Code with local amendments) | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Houston amends locally) |
| Min. Trap Size | Determined by fixture count and flow rate per NYC Plumbing Code Section 1003.3; gravity interceptors sized per ASME A112.14.3 (typically 750-2000 gallons for FSEs); under-sink traps (hydromechanical) rated at minimum 20 GPM for smaller operations | 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 |
| Pumping Frequency | As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG; NYC DEP recommends at minimum every 90 days; must be pumped before grease and solids accumulation exceeds 25% of wetted depth | Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | No separate FOG permit fee; covered under sewer connection/discharge permits. DEP may require a Wastewater Discharge Permit for significant facilities | Grease trap permit/registration required; fees approximately $100-$250 depending on establishment size |
| Max Fine | $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible | $2,000 per violation per day under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 47; repeat violations up to $4,000/day |
| Inspections | DEP conducts inspections as needed, typically annually for FSEs with compliance issues; self-monitoring required | Houston Health Department and Public Works conduct inspections; typically annually or upon complaint |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) | Houston Public Works and Engineering Department; Houston Health Department (grease transporter licensing) |
| Establishments | 24,639 | 10,038 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, New York (NY) and Houston (TX) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Houston uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: New York requires "As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG", whereas Houston requires "Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full".
- 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: New York penalties can reach $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible, compared to $2,000 per violation per day under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 47; repeat violations up to $4,000/day in Houston.
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 (NYC Plumbing Code based on International Plumbing Code with local amendments) vs IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide; Houston amends locally)) 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 New York and Houston?
New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Houston uses the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: New York requires "As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG", whereas Houston requires "Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, New York or Houston?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. New York fines: $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible. Houston fines: $2,000 per violation per day under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 47; repeat violations up to $4,000/day. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between New York and Houston?
New York: As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG; NYC DEP recommends at minimum every 90 days; must be pumped befor. Houston: Every 90 days minimum or when 25% full.
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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