Virginia Grease Trap Requirements & FOG Regulations
FOG Compliance Overview
Virginia 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 Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
With approximately 17,549 food service establishments statewide,Virginia 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, 10 require a dedicated FOG permit. 10 cities enforce the 25% rule for grease trap pumping.
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City Regulations in Virginia
| City | Pumping Frequency | Permit | 25% Rule |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria | See details | Required | — |
| Arlington | Per manufacturer recommendations and BMP; typically eve... | Required | Yes |
| Chesapeake | Regular pumping before FOG/solids exceed 25%; typically... | Required | Yes |
| Hampton | Minimum every 90 days (quarterly) or when 25% capacity ... | Required | Yes |
| Lynchburg | weekly; or when grease/solids reach 25% of capacity | — | Yes |
| Newport News | Per FOG program requirements; maintenance schedule set ... | Required | Yes |
| Norfolk | Minimum quarterly (4x/year) or when 25% full | Required | Yes |
| Pulaski | Minimum every 4 months or when 25% capacity reached | Required | Yes |
| Richmond | Monthly | — | — |
| Roanoke | Per Virginia Plumbing Code and local requirements | Required | Yes |
| Salem | Per local ordinance; Sections 90-208 and 90-212 | Required | Yes |
| Virginia Beach | Annual | Required | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What plumbing code does Virginia follow for grease traps?
Virginia 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 Virginia?
Virginia has approximately 17,549 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 Virginia?
Permit requirements vary by city. Of the 12 cities we cover in Virginia, 10 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 Virginia?
Grease trap sizing in Virginia 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.
Last verified: — Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions.