What are the grease trap requirements in Glendale, CA?

Food service establishments in Glendale must install and maintain grease traps or interceptors per local FOG ordinances. The city follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC).

Do I need a grease trap permit in Glendale?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Glendale. Fee: Per city fee schedule; contact Glendale Public Services.

What size grease trap do I need for my restaurant in Glendale?

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per California Plumbing Code (UPC-based); minimum two compartments with fittings designed for grease retention. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Glendale, CA

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Glendale, California.

At minimum every 6 months

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

UPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency At minimum every 6 months; more frequently if FOG/solids exceed 25% of total hydraulic capacity

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Per city fee schedule; contact Glendale Public Services

Max Fine Noncompliance charges per GMC 13.34.080; may include installation costs, technical reports, and discharge limits

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per California Plumbing Code (UPC-based); minimum two compartments with fittings designed for grease retention
Pumping Frequency	At minimum every 6 months; more frequently if FOG/solids exceed 25% of total hydraulic capacity
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Per city fee schedule; contact Glendale Public Services
Maximum Fine	Noncompliance charges per GMC 13.34.080; may include installation costs, technical reports, and discharge limits
Inspections	City inspections; director may issue notice of noncompliance for violations
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Glendale Municipal Code Chapter 13.34 (Prevention and Reduction of FOG Discharges by FSEs); GMC 13.34.040; GMC 13.34.080
Authority	City of Glendale Public Services / Director of Public Works

Additional Notes

Waste manifest logbook must be maintained on-site with previous 3 years records. Do not discharge waste liquids exceeding 140°F. Conditional waiver possible for FSEs with negligible FOG discharge. Minimum 6-month pump-out frequency.

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions. Last updated: March 2026.