What are the grease trap requirements in Oakland, CA?

Food service establishments in Oakland 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 Oakland?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Oakland.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Oakland, CA

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Oakland, California. Serving 4,119 food service establishments.

Every 1-3 months depending on

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

UPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Every 1-3 months depending on kitchen volume; before FOG exceeds 25% of total liquid depth

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Max Fine 2000

Complete FOG Regulations

Pumping Frequency	Every 1-3 months depending on kitchen volume; before FOG exceeds 25% of total liquid depth
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Maximum Fine	2000
Inspections	EBMUD conducts inspections of food service establishments
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Oakland Municipal Code Chapter 13.08 - Building Sewers
Authority	City of Oakland Environmental Services Division; East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD)

Additional Notes

Oakland prohibits discharge of FOG into the sanitary sewer system and reserves the right to disconnect buildings at property owner's expense. Fines up to $2,000 per violation per day for overflowing grease traps. EBMUD manages the pretreatment program and issues industrial permits. Service logs must be kept and made available to EBMUD inspectors. Used oil recycling containers and grease control devices must be emptied regularly by licensed liquid waste hauler.

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