What are the grease trap requirements in Riverside, CA?

Food service establishments in Riverside 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 Riverside?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Riverside. Fee: Contact Environmental Compliance Section at (951) 351-6145.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. 750 gallons minimum for grease interceptors. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Riverside, CA

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

Per 25% rule

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

UPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Per 25% rule; typically quarterly or as needed

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Contact Environmental Compliance Section at (951) 351-6145

Max Fine Per Riverside Municipal Code Chapter 14.12 enforcement provisions

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	750 gallons minimum for grease interceptors
Pumping Frequency	Per 25% rule; typically quarterly or as needed
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Contact Environmental Compliance Section at (951) 351-6145
Maximum Fine	Per Riverside Municipal Code Chapter 14.12 enforcement provisions
Inspections	Pre-installation inspection required; periodic compliance inspections
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Riverside Municipal Code Chapter 14.12; California Plumbing Code
Authority	City of Riverside Public Works – Environmental Compliance Section (Industrial Waste)

Additional Notes

Interceptors must have 2+ chambers (excl. sample box). Discharge tee must extend within 12 inches from bottom. All interceptors must be properly vented AFTER the sample box. Plans must be approved before construction/modification.

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