What are the grease trap requirements in Fort Lauderdale, FL?

Food service establishments in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Fort Lauderdale. Fee: Per Broward County / City of Fort Lauderdale fee schedule; contact city for current amount.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per Florida Building Code (IPC-based) and Broward County requirements; sized by seating capacity and kitchen equipment. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Fort Lauderdale, FL

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Serving 4,278 food service establishments.

Every 90 days typically

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Every 90 days typically; complete removal of all contents required (not just skimming)

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Per Broward County / City of Fort Lauderdale fee schedule; contact city for current amount

Max Fine $250 per failure to clean; up to $5,000 for repeat violations; plus license suspension possible

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per Florida Building Code (IPC-based) and Broward County requirements; sized by seating capacity and kitchen equipment
Pumping Frequency	Every 90 days typically; complete removal of all contents required (not just skimming)
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Per Broward County / City of Fort Lauderdale fee schedule; contact city for current amount
Maximum Fine	$250 per failure to clean; up to $5,000 for repeat violations; plus license suspension possible
Inspections	Regular inspections; restaurant employee must be present during grease trap cleaning
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Fort Lauderdale Code of Ordinances; Broward County Code Chapter 34 Article VI (Wastewater Discharge); Florida DEP grease waste regulations
Authority	City of Fort Lauderdale / Broward County Environmental Services

Additional Notes

Never empty deep fryer waste into floor drains. Complete removal of grease trap contents required — not just skimming. Cleaning records must show when trap was cleaned and disposal method. Broward County level regulations also apply.

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