North Carolina Grease Trap Regulations
FOG Compliance Overview
North Carolina follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC) as its base plumbing code. The IPC requires grease interceptors for food service establishments and references sizing based on fixture unit counts and flow rates. The state's regulatory authority is the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
With approximately 21,985 food service establishments statewide, North Carolina has significant FOG compliance needs. Individual cities and municipalities may adopt additional local ordinances that go beyond the state plumbing code, including stricter pumping schedules, permit requirements, and enforcement penalties. Of the 12 cities we cover, 3 require a dedicated FOG permit. 3 cities enforce the 25% rule for grease trap pumping.
Need a grease trap in North Carolina?
Our free calculator uses IPC code requirements to recommend the right size for your establishment.
Size My Grease TrapCity Regulations in North Carolina
| City | Pumping Frequency | Permit | 25% Rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cary | See details | — | — |
| Charlotte | At minimum every 90 days; must be pumped before FOG and... | Required | Yes |
| Concord | See details | — | — |
| Durham | weekly | — | — |
| Fayetteville | Annual | — | — |
| Greensboro | See details | — | — |
| Harrisburg | quarterly | — | — |
| Kannapolis | Annual | — | — |
| Raleigh | Minimum every 90 days (quarterly). Must be pumped befor... | Required | Yes |
| Wilmington | Every 90 days (quarterly) | — | — |
| Wilson | annual | — | — |
| Winston-Salem | monthly; or when grease/solids reach 25% of capacity | Required | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What plumbing code does North Carolina follow for grease traps?
North Carolina follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC). The IPC requires grease interceptors for food service establishments and sizes them based on fixture unit counts and flow rates. Individual cities may adopt stricter local ordinances.
How many food service establishments are in North Carolina?
North Carolina has approximately 21,985 food service establishments according to Census Bureau County Business Patterns data. We currently cover detailed FOG regulations for 12 cities in the state.
Do I need a grease trap permit in North Carolina?
Permit requirements vary by city. Of the 12 cities we cover in North Carolina, 3 require a dedicated FOG permit. Check your specific city's requirements below or contact your local wastewater authority.
What size grease trap do I need in North Carolina?
Grease trap sizing in North Carolina depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements under the IPC. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation tailored to your setup.
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions. Last updated: March 2026.