What are the grease trap requirements in St. Petersburg, FL?

Food service establishments in St. Petersburg 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 St. Petersburg?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in St. Petersburg. Fee: $275 for pumping frequency variance application.

What size grease trap do I need for my restaurant in St. Petersburg?

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
St. Petersburg, FL

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in St. Petersburg, Florida.

At least once per month (varia

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency At least once per month (variance available up to 180 days with $275 fee)

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee $275 for pumping frequency variance application

Max Fine $250 to $5,000 per violation (Florida state standards)

Complete FOG Regulations

Pumping Frequency	At least once per month (variance available up to 180 days with $275 fee)
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	$275 for pumping frequency variance application
Maximum Fine	$250 to $5,000 per violation (Florida state standards)
Inspections	Routine inspections by city Grease Management Program staff
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	City of St. Petersburg Sewer Use Ordinance (Chapter 27, Article III); Florida Statute 403.0741
Authority	City of St. Petersburg Utilities Department, Grease Management Program

Additional Notes

Sewer use ordinance amended June 2002 to require grease removal devices in all food service facilities. As of July 1, 2022, gray water return/decanting/backflushing prohibited per Florida Statute 403.0741. Cleaning and maintenance recorded via POM Portal. Only licensed grease haulers or certified self-cleaners may remove waste. Contact: 727-892-5622, Grease@stpete.org.

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