What are the grease trap requirements in Savannah, GA?

Food service establishments in Savannah 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 Savannah?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Savannah.

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

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Gravity interceptors sized per 30-minute detention time with 25% storage volume for FOG/solids accumulation. Grease retention capacity rating in pounds must be at least 2x the GPM flow rate.. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Savannah, GA

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Savannah, Georgia.

Every 90 days or when grease a

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

IPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Every 90 days or when grease and settled solids reach 25% of tank depth, whichever comes first

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Max Fine $1,000 per day per violation (City); up to $25,000 per day under Georgia Code 12-5-51 for dumping/overflow

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Gravity interceptors sized per 30-minute detention time with 25% storage volume for FOG/solids accumulation. Grease retention capacity rating in pounds must be at least 2x the GPM flow rate.
Pumping Frequency	Every 90 days or when grease and settled solids reach 25% of tank depth, whichever comes first
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Maximum Fine	$1,000 per day per violation (City); up to $25,000 per day under Georgia Code 12-5-51 for dumping/overflow
Inspections	Routine inspections by city staff; Chatham County requires sampling ports on new traps
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Ordinance Ref.	City of Savannah Grease Interceptor Standard (Revised May 2015); City of Savannah Code of Ordinances
Authority	City of Savannah Public Works and Water Resources Bureau / Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD)

Additional Notes

Establishments have 6 months from notification to install approved grease-handling equipment. Where outdoor interceptors are infeasible, under-the-counter or in-floor units are accepted. Chatham County (Savannah) requires proof of 24-hour spill response training for staff. Records must be retained for at least 3 years.

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