New York vs Las Vegas
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between New York, NY and Las Vegas, NV.
| Requirement | New York, NY | Las Vegas, NV |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (NYC Plumbing Code based on International Plumbing Code with local amendments) | UPC |
| 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 | 750 gallons minimum for gravity grease interceptors; hydromechanical interceptors sized per fixture count and flow rate per UPC tables (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; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of interceptor capacity |
| 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 | Health permit for food establishments includes FOG compliance; separate grease hauler permits also required |
| Max Fine | $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible | $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations |
| Inspections | DEP conducts inspections as needed, typically annually for FSEs with compliance issues; self-monitoring required | Annual inspections as part of health permit and sewer discharge compliance |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) | City of Las Vegas Public Works Department and Clark County Water Reclamation District; Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) for food establishment inspections |
| Establishments | 24,639 | 5,457 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, New York (NY) and Las Vegas (NV) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas 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: New York penalties can reach $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible, compared to $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations in Las Vegas.
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 UPC) 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 Las Vegas?
New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas requires "Every 90 days minimum".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, New York or Las Vegas?
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. Las Vegas fines: $1,000 per violation per day under Clark County code; escalating penalties for repeat violations. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between New York and Las Vegas?
New York: As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG; NYC DEP recommends at minimum every 90 days; must be pumped befor. Las Vegas: Every 90 days minimum; more frequently if grease and solids exceed 25% of interceptor capacity.
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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