New York vs Houston
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison betweenNew 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 | Verify required type and sizing with Houston permitting and the applicable plumbing code before installation |
| 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 | Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspection program |
| 25% Rule | 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 | Current FOG Generator permit fee must be confirmed with the Houston Health Department |
| Max Fine | $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible | Check the current Houston Code of Ordinances and enforcement notice for the applicable violation |
| Inspections | DEP conducts inspections as needed, typically annually for FSEs with compliance issues; self-monitoring required | Grease-trap inspections are handled by the City of Houston; confirm the applicable schedule directly |
| 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 "Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspect".
- New York enforces the 25% rule (traps must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity), while Houston does not explicitly enforce this standard.
- 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 Check the current Houston Code of Ordinances and enforcement notice for the applicable violation 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 "Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspect".
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: Check the current Houston Code of Ordinances and enforcement notice for the applicable violation. 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: Verify the current service interval with the City of Houston grease-trap inspection program.
Last verified: — Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions.
Operating in Both Cities?
Use our sizing calculator to find the right grease trap for each location.
Open Calculator