What are the grease trap requirements in Irvine, CA?

Food service establishments in Irvine 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 Irvine?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Irvine. Fee: $350.12 plan check fee + $255.00 permit issuance/initial inspection fee.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per California Plumbing Code and IRWD Section 7.13 requirements. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Irvine, CA

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

Per 25% rule

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

UPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Per 25% rule; minimum every 6 months

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee $350.12 plan check fee + $255.00 permit issuance/initial inspection fee

Max Fine $1,150 per enforcement incident (compliance follow-up inspection fee)

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per California Plumbing Code and IRWD Section 7.13 requirements
Pumping Frequency	Per 25% rule; minimum every 6 months
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	$350.12 plan check fee + $255.00 permit issuance/initial inspection fee
Maximum Fine	$1,150 per enforcement incident (compliance follow-up inspection fee)
Inspections	Initial inspection plus periodic compliance inspections
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
Ordinance Ref.	IRWD Rules and Regulations Section 7.13; Irvine Municipal Code
Authority	Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) – FOG Control Program

Additional Notes

IRWD administers the FOG program (not the City directly). Plan check fee includes one resubmittal; additional resubmittals cost $301.92 each. Contact fog@irwd.com or (949) 453-5865. Required by Santa Ana RWQCB Order R8-2002-0014.

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