New York vs San Antonio
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between New York, NY and San Antonio, TX.
| Requirement | New York, NY | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | IPC (NYC Plumbing Code based on International Plumbing Code with local amendments) | IPC (Texas adopts IPC statewide) |
| 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 FSEs; sizing per SAWS requirements and Texas Plumbing Code; smaller hydromechanical interceptors (20-50 GPM) allowed for limited food prep |
| 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; SAWS Grease Trap Procedure Manual specifies cleaning must occur before grease and solids exceed 25% of trap 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 | FOG permit/registration through SAWS; fees approximately $75-$200 annually |
| 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 City of San Antonio ordinance; SAWS can also assess surcharges for non-compliance |
| Inspections | DEP conducts inspections as needed, typically annually for FSEs with compliance issues; self-monitoring required | SAWS conducts routine inspections; typically annually for FSEs; increased frequency for repeat violators |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) | San Antonio Water System (SAWS) |
| Establishments | 24,639 | 4,282 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, New York (NY) and San Antonio (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 San Antonio 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 San Antonio 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 $2,000 per violation per day under City of San Antonio ordinance; SAWS can also assess surcharges for non-compliance in San Antonio.
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)) 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 San Antonio?
New York follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while San Antonio 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 San Antonio requires "Every 90 days minimum".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, New York or San Antonio?
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. San Antonio fines: $2,000 per violation per day under City of San Antonio ordinance; SAWS can also assess surcharges for non-compliance. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between New York and San Antonio?
New York: As needed to prevent discharge exceeding 100 mg/L FOG; NYC DEP recommends at minimum every 90 days; must be pumped befor. San Antonio: Every 90 days minimum; SAWS Grease Trap Procedure Manual specifies cleaning must occur before grease and solids exceed 2.
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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