New York vs Miami
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between New York, NY and Miami, FL.
| Requirement | New York, NY | Miami, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (NYC Plumbing Code based on International Plumbing Code with local amendments) | IPC (Florida Building Code, which is based on the International codes) |
| 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 | 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. |
| 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 | 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. |
| 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 | Initial FOG-1 permit application fee approximately $200; annual renewal fee approximately $65. Fees subject to update per Miami-Dade fee schedule. |
| Max Fine | $25,000 per day per violation under NYC Administrative Code Title 24; additional civil penalties possible | Up to $15,000 per day per violation under Miami-Dade County Code. Civil penalties and administrative enforcement actions including cease-and-desist orders. |
| Inspections | DEP conducts inspections as needed, typically annually for FSEs with compliance issues; self-monitoring required | 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. |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) | Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department (WASD), Environmental Compliance Section; Miami-Dade Permitting and Inspection Center |
| Establishments | 24,639 | 6,089 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, New York (NY) and Miami (FL) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Miami 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 Miami requires "As specified in FOG permit conditions".
- 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 Up to $15,000 per day per violation under Miami-Dade County Code. Civil penalties and administrative enforcement actions including cease-and-desist orders. in Miami.
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 (Florida Building Code, which is based on the International codes)) 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 Miami?
New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Miami 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 Miami requires "As specified in FOG permit conditions".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, New York or Miami?
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. 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.. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between New York and Miami?
New York: As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG; NYC DEP recommends at minimum every 90 days; must be pumped befor. Miami: As specified in FOG permit conditions; typically every 30-90 days depending on establishment volume. Must be pumped befo.
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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