New York vs Long Beach
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between New York, NY and Long Beach, CA.
| Requirement | New York, NY | Long Beach, CA |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Per California Plumbing Code; minimum 750 gallons for gravity interceptors |
| 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 or when 25% capacity reached, whichever is first |
| 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 | Contact Long Beach Environmental Health at (562) 570-4132 |
| Max Fine | $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible | Administrative fines starting at $100-$200 per violation; civil penalties for continued non-compliance |
| Inspections | DEP conducts inspections as needed, typically annually for FSEs with compliance issues; self-monitoring required | Routine inspections by city staff |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) | City of Long Beach Environmental Health Division and Long Beach Utilities |
| Establishments | 24,639 | 23,693 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, New York (NY) and Long Beach (CA) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Long Beach 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 Long Beach requires "Every 90 days or when 25% capacity reached, whichever is first".
- 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 Administrative fines starting at $100-$200 per violation; civil penalties for continued non-compliance in Long Beach.
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 Long Beach?
New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Long Beach 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 Long Beach requires "Every 90 days or when 25% capacity reached, whichever is first".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, New York or Long Beach?
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. Long Beach fines: Administrative fines starting at $100-$200 per violation; civil penalties for continued non-compliance. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between New York and Long Beach?
New York: As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG; NYC DEP recommends at minimum every 90 days; must be pumped befor. Long Beach: Every 90 days or when 25% capacity reached, whichever is first.
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?
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