Seattle vs Arlington
Side-by-side FOG compliance comparison between Seattle, WA and Arlington, TX.
| Requirement | Seattle, WA | Arlington, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing Code | UPC (Washington State uses Uniform Plumbing Code) | IPC |
| Min. Trap Size | 1,000 gallons minimum for gravity grease interceptors; hydromechanical interceptors per UPC sizing (typically 20-50 GPM) | Based on total potential flow from all food prep/handling/serving fixtures per city sizing spreadsheet |
| Pumping Frequency | At minimum every 90 days for the first year; frequency may be adjusted based on monitoring records | Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule |
| 25% Rule | Yes | Yes |
| Permit Required | Required | Required |
| Permit Fee | No separate FOG permit fee; covered under King County Industrial Waste discharge program | Contact Water Resource Services at 817-459-5902 |
| Max Fine | $10,000 per day per violation under Seattle Municipal Code; King County may impose additional penalties | Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code |
| Inspections | Annually; King County WTD inspects FSEs on a risk-based schedule | Periodic inspections by Water Resource Services |
| Record Keeping | Yes | Yes |
| Authority | King County Wastewater Treatment Division (WTD) Industrial Waste Program; Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) for local sewer connections | City of Arlington Water Resource Services |
| Establishments | 6,372 | 4,506 |
Key Differences
As cities in different states, Seattle (WA) and Arlington (TX) operate under distinct regulatory frameworks. Here are the most important differences restaurant operators should know:
- Seattle follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Arlington uses the International Plumbing Code (IPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards.
- Pumping schedules differ: Seattle requires "At minimum every 90 days for the first year", whereas Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards".
- 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: Seattle penalties can reach $10,000 per day per violation under Seattle Municipal Code; King County may impose additional penalties, compared to Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code in Arlington.
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 (UPC (Washington State uses Uniform Plumbing Code) vs IPC) 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 Seattle and Arlington?
Seattle follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), while Arlington uses the International Plumbing Code (IPC). This affects trap sizing calculations and installation standards. Pumping schedules differ: Seattle requires "At minimum every 90 days for the first year", whereas Arlington requires "Per TCEQ model standards".
Which city has stricter grease trap enforcement, Seattle or Arlington?
Enforcement varies: both cities have similar permit requirements. Seattle fines: $10,000 per day per violation under Seattle Municipal Code; King County may impose additional penalties. Arlington fines: Up to $2,000 per violation per day under Texas Local Government Code. Always verify with local authorities.
How do pumping schedules differ between Seattle and Arlington?
Seattle: At minimum every 90 days for the first year; frequency may be adjusted based on monitoring records. Arlington: Per TCEQ model standards; minimum every 90 days or per 25% rule.
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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