What are the grease trap requirements in Cape Coral, FL?

Food service establishments in Cape Coral must install and maintain grease traps or interceptors per local FOG ordinances. The city follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC).

Do I need a grease trap permit in Cape Coral?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Cape Coral. Fee: Per city utility permit fee schedule.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per Florida Building Code - Plumbing; gravity interceptors for FSEs. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Cape Coral, FL

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Cape Coral, Florida.

Grease traps every 30 days

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Grease traps every 30 days; interceptors every 90 days (Florida standard)

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Per city utility permit fee schedule

Max Fine Per Chapter 19 Water and Sewer Utilities violation penalties; code violations subject to Special Magistrate or County Court

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per Florida Building Code - Plumbing; gravity interceptors for FSEs
Pumping Frequency	Grease traps every 30 days; interceptors every 90 days (Florida standard)
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Per city utility permit fee schedule
Maximum Fine	Per Chapter 19 Water and Sewer Utilities violation penalties; code violations subject to Special Magistrate or County Court
Inspections	Periodic inspections per city utilities program
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Cape Coral Code of Ordinances Chapter 19 (Water and Sewer Utilities); Florida Statutes §403.0741; FAC Chapter 62-705
Authority	City of Cape Coral Utilities Department / Florida DEP

Additional Notes

Florida requires licensed grease haulers and service manifests documenting removal and disposal. State law (§403.0741 and Chapter 62-705 FAC) governs grease waste removal. Code violations may go to Special Magistrate or County Court. Lee County FOG program also applies to unincorporated areas.

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