Grease Trap Requirements
Baltimore, MD
FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Baltimore, Maryland. Serving 1,446 food service establishments.
Pumping Requirements
Permits & Enforcement
Complete FOG Regulations
| Minimum Trap Size | 1,000 gallons minimum for gravity grease interceptors; hydromechanical units sized per fixture drainage load |
|---|---|
| Pumping Frequency | Every 90 days minimum; or more frequently based on inspection results and volume of FOG generated |
| 25% Rule | Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity |
| Permit Required | Yes |
| Permit Fee | No separate published annual FOG permit fee; FOG compliance included under grease interceptor installation permit and food facility permits |
| Maximum Fine | $10,000 per violation per day; city may also pursue injunctive relief |
| Inspections | Annual inspections; DPW may increase frequency for problem facilities or following SSO events |
| Record Keeping | Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site |
| Plumbing Code | International Plumbing Code (IPC) |
| Ordinance Ref. | Baltimore City Code, Article 25 - Plumbing; Baltimore City FOG Program Manual (2016); Baltimore City Health Code food facility requirements |
| Authority | Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) - Bureau of Water and Wastewater; Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for plumbing permits |
Additional Notes
Maryland follows IPC-based state plumbing code. Baltimore has a formal FOG Program Manual (published 2016) governing grease interceptor requirements, maintenance standards, and enforcement procedures. All FSEs must install appropriately sized grease interceptors and maintain regular pumping schedules. Cleaning records and grease hauler manifests must be kept on-site for at least 3 years. Grease interceptor requirements are also detailed in DHCD attachment E2. Contact: DHCD at (410) 396-3360
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions. Last updated: March 2026.
Contact Information
Department of Housing and Community Development: (410) 396-3360
Official Sources
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